- English translation
Anyone who acts openly should not try to hide a smaller detail about himself.
- Literal wording
He who plays the flute does not cover his beard.
- Meaning and lesson
The saying points to the inconsistency of displaying a conspicuous action while concealing some lesser, connected detail. Once the more noticeable matter is already in view, hiding what is comparatively minor appears ineffective or self-conscious.
It can express the idea that open conduct carries its own visibility. A person who has chosen to do something plainly seen should not become embarrassed by a smaller aspect that is less striking than the act already exposed.
- When it is used
Used to remark on someone who openly undertakes a noticeable act but then tries to conceal a less significant related detail. It highlights the mismatch between conspicuous conduct and selective secrecy.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
Report an issue with this meaning: Anyone who acts openly should not try to hide a smaller detail about himself.