Once a…, always a…

Pro Tip 1/3

Emotional Weight

This phrase often carries emotional or moral judgment, implying a fixed nature or inability to change.

He may say he's changed, but once a liar, always a liar.

Pro Tip 2/3

Not Literal

It's an expression, not a fact. People can change, but this phrase suggests skepticism towards that change.

She returned the stolen money, but people say once a thief, always a thief.

Pro Tip 3/3

Informal Context

Mostly used in casual conversation. It might be inappropriate in formal or sensitive situations.

At the reunion, they joked that once a class clown, always a class clown.