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What does "Show your true colors" mean?
To reveal one's true character or intentions, especially after a period of concealment.
When do you use "Show your true colors"?
This phrase is appropriate when discussing situations where someone has been hiding their true nature or intentions and eventually reveals them, particularly in contexts related to trust, honesty, or betrayal.
"Show your true colors" Usage Examples
- After months of pretending to be supportive, she finally showed her true colors during the team meeting.
- It was only when the project hit a snag that he showed his true colors as someone who wasn't willing to help.
- The politician seemed genuine at first, but he eventually showed his true colors as self-serving.
- When the pressure was on, he showed his true colors and proved to be a great leader.
- Despite her friendly demeanor, she showed her true colors when she betrayed her closest friend.
"Show your true colors" Explained
The phrase 'show your true colors' is believed to originate from the practice of pirates who would fly false flags to deceive other ships. Once they got close enough to their targets, they would reveal their true colors by raising their actual pirate flag. This act symbolized the unveiling of one's real identity or intentions.