What does “All that glitters is not gold” mean?
"All that glitters is not gold" means that not everything that looks attractive or valuable is actually good or true.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He may seem charming, but remember, all that glitters is not gold.
Example
The advertisement promised a luxurious vacation, but all that glitters is not gold.
Example
She may have a fancy car, but all that glitters is not gold when it comes to her financial situation
Is “All that glitters is not gold” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“All that glitters is not gold” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “All that glitters is not gold” effectively in context?
You can use "All that glitters is not gold" to remind someone that appearances can be deceiving and that they should not judge something or someone solely based on outward appearances. Here are three distinct situations where you can effectively use this phrase:
- 1Shopping
Before buying an expensive item, it's important to remember that all that glitters is not gold. Take the time to research and evaluate its quality and value.
- 2Relationships
When meeting new people, it's wise to keep in mind that all that glitters is not gold. Don't be swayed by superficial charm or impressive achievements without getting to know their true character.
- 3Career Opportunities
In the job market, it's essential to remember that all that glitters is not gold. A high-paying job or a prestigious title may not necessarily lead to job satisfaction or a fulfilling career.
Similar phrases to “All that glitters is not gold”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “All that glitters is not gold” come from?
The origin of the phrase "All that glitters is not gold" can be traced back to a line in William Shakespeare's play 'The Merchant of Venice' written in 1596. The original line is 'All that glisters is not gold,' with 'glisters' being an old spelling of 'glitters.' However, the idea behind the proverb has been present in various cultures and languages throughout history.
Is “All that glitters is not gold” common in everyday conversation?
The phrase "All that glitters is not gold" is quite common in everyday conversation. It is often used to caution against making judgments based solely on appearances and to remind people to look beyond the surface.
What tone does “All that glitters is not gold” have?
The tone of "All that glitters is not gold" is cautionary and skeptical. It suggests a sense of skepticism towards things that appear attractive or valuable at first glance.
Can “All that glitters is not gold” be used in informal and formal settings?
This proverb is commonly used in both informal and formal settings. It is versatile and can be used in various contexts, such as casual conversations, presentations, or even in writing.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
While "All that glitters is not gold" is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning, it can also be used alone to imply the idea that appearances can be deceiving. For example, if someone shows you a shiny object and asks if it's valuable, you can simply respond with '"All that glitters is not gold".'
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- not everything that shines is gold
- appearances can be deceptive
- not all that sparkles is gold
- not everything that looks good is good
- not everything that seems valuable is valuable
Antonyms
- what you see is what you get
- appearances are everything
- everything that glitters is gold
- all that looks good is good
- everything that seems valuable is valuable
