English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Show true colors
Meaning
The idiom "show true colors" is used to describe someone or something that reveals their true nature, intentions or beliefs after an initial display of deception, falsehood or hypocrisy. It implies that the person's true character or motives are revealed when they no longer have any reason to hide them.
Usage
- When some politicians promised to work for the people, but in reality they only worked for themselves, they showed their true colors by taking bribes and embezzling funds.
- After years of pretending to be a religious person, he finally showed his true colors when he admitted to cheating on his wife.
- The company promised to donate 10% of its profits to charity, but they showed their true colors by only donating 5%.
- When the celebrity posted pictures of her expensive clothes and vacations on social media, she was showing her true colors as a materialistic person.
- After months of hiding her addiction from her family and friends, she finally showed her true colors by seeking help at rehab.
Roots and History
The origin of the idiom is unclear, but it may have derived from the practice of dyeing or painting armor or weapons to deceive enemies on the battlefield. When an enemy saw that their opponent's armor had suddenly changed color, they knew that the true colors were revealed. Over time, the idiom has been used in various contexts and its meaning has evolved slightly. However, the basic idea remains the same - revealing one's true nature after a period of deception or falsehood.
Synonyms in English
- Reveal true intentions
- Show true self
- Unmask oneself
- Expose one's true nature
- Make one's true feelings known
Synonyms in other languages
- De laver le masque (French) - to remove the mask or uncover the truth
- Dormir sur le dos (French) - to sleep on one's stomach, meaning to reveal oneself
- En verde amor (Spanish) - to reveal true love in its purest form
- Revelare la vérité (French) - to reveal the truth
- Dormir sur le dos (Italian) - to sleep on one's stomach, meaning to reveal oneself