a leopard can't change its spots
Say it: a LEP-uhd can't change its spots /ə ˌlɛpəd ˌkɑːnt ˌtʃeɪndʒ ɪts ˈspɒts/ · idiom
What “a leopard can't change its spots” means
People cannot change their basic character or habits.
More precisely: People cannot change their basic character, especially bad habits.
When to use it
When expressing doubt that someone's longstanding behaviour will change. Informal and pessimistic, especially about repeated bad habits.
Similar words
old habits die hard, people don't change
Where it comes from
From the Bible, Jeremiah 13:23.
Quick check
A friend repeatedly breaks promises despite claiming to have changed, and you doubt they ever will. Which saying fits?
old habits die hard or a leopard can't change its spots?
Show the answer
a leopard can't change its spots
Learn 5 new words a day in Kinquire. Each with a picture, how to say it, an example and a quick check, then spaced review so you actually keep them. Free to start.
Learn “a leopard can't change its spots”