What Does “show your true colors” mean?
Definition:
If you show your true colors, you reveal yourself as you really are. You act in agreement with your real personality as opposed to how one has been portrayed or after having been deceptively and deliberately misleading.
Origin
This phrase dates back to the 1700s. It has a nautical origin and refers to the color of the flag which every ship is required to fly at sea. Pirates used to deceive other ships by sailing under false flags so that they would not excite suspicion. The other ships, thinking that the pirates were friendly, sailed close to them and fell under their grip. It was only after the attack that the pirates would show their ‘true flag’.
Example(s)
She always thought he was completely honest, but he showed his true colors when he cheated on her.
False friends show their true colors when you badly need their help.
John pretended that the deal was in my best interest, but he showed his true colors when I realized that he got a big commission for getting me into an unprofitable sale.
I’ve known Sandra since we were high school classmates – she’s such a mean person. I am sure Alan will eventually discover her true personality. One day, she will show her true colors.
Everybody thought Bob was a cool guy. It was only when he was promoted as a chief manager that he showed his true colors.
