What does “The More Things Change, The More They Stay The Same” mean?

"The More Things Change, The More They Stay The Same" means that despite apparent changes, the situation remains unchanged.

What context can I use the in?

Example

We've updated the website design, but the more things change, the more they stay the same - customers are still complaining about the same issues.

Example

New management has taken over, but the more things change, the more they stay the same - the company is still struggling with financial problems.

Example

The team has a new coach, but the more things change, the more they stay the same - they continue to lose games

Is “The More Things Change, The More They Stay The Same” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“The More Things Change, The More They Stay The Same” 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 “The More Things Change, The More They Stay The Same” effectively in context?

You can use "The More Things Change, The More They Stay The Same" to express the observation that despite apparent changes, the situation or outcome remains the same. It implies a sense of frustration or resignation towards the lack of progress or improvement. For example, if a company undergoes a rebranding but continues to face the same issues, you might say, 'Well, the more things change, the more they stay the same.'

1Business
Despite the new marketing strategy, the more things change, the more they stay the same - sales continue to decline.
2Politics
Different politicians promise change, but the more things change, the more they stay the same - corruption remains rampant.
3Personal Relationships
They broke up and got back together, but the more things change, the more they stay the same - their problems resurfaced.

Similar phrases to “The More Things Change, The More They Stay The Same”:

Same old, same old

Refers to a situation that remains unchanged or repetitive

Example

He's always late for work, it's just the same old, same old.

History repeats itself

Suggests that events or situations tend to recur in a similar pattern

Example

Once again, the country is facing economic crisis - history repeats itself.

Meet the new boss, same as the old boss

Implies that despite a change in leadership, things remain unchanged

Example

We thought things would improve with the new manager, but meet the new boss, same as the old boss.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “The More Things Change, The More They Stay The Same” come from?

The origin of the phrase "The More Things Change, The More They Stay The Same" is attributed to French writer Jean-Baptiste Alphonse Karr. In 1849, he wrote, 'Plus ça change, plus c'est la même chose,' which translates to 'The more it changes, the more it's the same thing.' The phrase reflects the idea that despite external changes, the underlying situation or outcome remains unchanged.

Is “The More Things Change, The More They Stay The Same” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "The More Things Change, The More They Stay The Same" is a well-known proverb that is commonly used in everyday conversation. People often use it to express their frustration or resignation towards situations that seem to remain unchanged despite efforts or external changes.

What tone does “The More Things Change, The More They Stay The Same” have?

"The More Things Change, The More They Stay The Same" conveys a tone of resignation and cynicism. It suggests a sense of acceptance that despite efforts or changes, the outcome or situation will likely remain the same.

Can “The More Things Change, The More They Stay The Same” be used in informal and formal settings?

The proverb "The More Things Change, The More They Stay The Same" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a widely recognized phrase that conveys the idea of the persistence of certain situations or outcomes despite apparent changes. You can use it in various contexts, such as casual conversations, professional discussions, or even in written communication.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'Despite the new policies, "the more things change, the more they stay the same".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the proverb even if used alone, like saying 'Well, "the more things change, the more they stay the same".' to express frustration or resignation.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

no change in sight
the status quo remains
nothing ever changes
different day, same result
still stuck in the same place

Antonyms

change is inevitable
things are finally different
a new beginning
breaking the cycle
progress at last