once a something, always a something

once a (something), always a (something)

proverb A person's innate or fundamental nature is not something they are willing or able to change. He says he's trying to leave his life of crime behind, but once a criminal, always a criminal. Even years after leaving the stage, she still can't resist performing—once an actor, always an actor.

See also: always, once

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

once a —, always a —

a person cannot change their fundamental nature.

1993 Margaret Atwood The Robber Bride She was once a Catholic…and once a Catholic, always a Catholic, according to her mother.

See also: always, once, something

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017