- English translation
Treat him tactfully, but his ingrained disposition will not change.
- Literal wording
Handle him gently, make allowances for him, yet what is in him will not leave him.
- Meaning and lesson
The proverb says that gentle, considerate treatment does not necessarily alter a person whose harmful disposition is deeply embedded. It contrasts careful outward handling with an inner trait that continues to shape the person's conduct.
It is applied to someone of bad character who is not improved by being treated well. The saying presents good treatment as unable, by itself, to dislodge a settled tendency or reform the person's behavior.
- When it is used
Used of a badly behaved person whose conduct remains unchanged despite tactful and kind treatment. It emphasizes the limits of courtesy as a means of correcting an entrenched disposition.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
Report an issue with this meaning: Treat him tactfully, but his ingrained disposition will not change.