- English translation
A flower on the outside, a monkey within.
- Literal wording
Outside a rose, and inside a monkey.
- Meaning and lesson
The saying describes someone or something whose pleasing appearance conceals an ugly, disagreeable, or defective inner reality. It cautions against judging character or worth from outward attractiveness alone.
It may be used critically of polished manners, fine presentation, or an appealing surface that masks bad conduct or poor substance. The contrast is deliberately sharp and degrading when directed at a person, making the judgment openly disparaging.
- When it is used
Use it when an attractive exterior is believed to hide unattractive character or quality. It is a cutting, insulting comparison, especially when applied directly to a person, so it suits criticism or warning more readily than neutral description.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
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