TRUE COLORS Meaning and
Definition
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The term "true colors" refers to someone's genuine character or personality, which may be hidden or disguised behind a facade. It implies the revelation or display of a person's true nature or intentions, typically after they have been deceptive, dishonest, or acted differently than their usual self. When someone's true colors are revealed, it means that their real attitudes, motives, or feelings are brought to the surface, often in a negative or surprising way.
This phrase suggests that people can pretend to be someone they are not, putting on a mask or adopting a false persona to manipulate or deceive others. However, over time, and usually in revealing or challenging situations, a person's true colors will eventually shine through. This concept implies that individuals cannot maintain their deceptive behavior indefinitely, as their true character will ultimately manifest itself.
Understanding someone's true colors is valuable because it allows us to glimpse their authenticity and make more informed judgments about their character. It is a reminder to be cautious when making assumptions about others based on their initial behavior, and to be attentive to any discrepancies between their actions and words.
In summary, true colors represent the genuine character or personality traits of an individual, often unveiled after a period of deception or pretense. Revealing someone's true colors enables us to see beyond the facade and evaluate their true nature.
Common Misspellings for TRUE COLORS
- rrue colors
- frue colors
- grue colors
- yrue colors
- 6rue colors
- 5rue colors
- teue colors
- tdue colors
- tfue colors
- ttue colors
- t5ue colors
- t4ue colors
- trye colors
- trhe colors
- trje colors
- trie colors
- tr8e colors
- tr7e colors
- truw colors
- trus colors
Etymology of TRUE COLORS
The phrase "true colors" has an origin in the English language and dates back to the 18th century. Its etymology can be traced to several sources.
One theory is that the phrase originated from the world of textiles. In traditional hand-weaving, the true colors of a fabric would only be revealed after washing and removing any temporary dyes or finishes. This process would expose the authentic colors of the fabric, implying that the true nature or character of something or someone becomes evident over time.
Another possible origin comes from the world of art. When painting, artists often use underpainting, which is an initial layer of paint that serves as a base for later layers. The underpainting is usually done in neutral tones to establish values and shadows before applying the true colors. Once these actual colors are added, the artist's true intention for the artwork becomes apparent.
Idioms with the word TRUE COLORS
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sm's true colors
The idiom "someone's true colors" refers to a person's real or genuine character or nature, typically hidden or disguised initially. It describes the revealing of someone's true intentions, personality traits, or motives, often unexpectedly or in a revealing manner.
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show sb's/sth's true colors
The idiom "show someone's or something's true colors" means to reveal or display someone's or something's real nature or character, especially when it is unfavorable or deceptive. It refers to a situation where someone or something initially presents themselves in a positive or respectable way, but eventually their true intentions, behavior, or qualities come to light, often being disappointing or unpleasant.
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show true colors
The idiom "show true colors" means to reveal one's real character or intentions, often by behaving in a way that is unexpected or contrary to previous appearances or claims.
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show (one) in (one's) true colors
The idiom "show (one) in (one's) true colors" means to reveal one's true nature, character, or intentions, especially when it is negative or disloyal. It refers to the act of displaying one's genuine qualities or behavior, which may differ from the perception others had of them.
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true colors
To reveal one's true intentions or character, especially when those intentions or character are negative or unpleasant.
