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  What it means

  “A beard does not make a wise man.” Outward appearance — even one associated with wisdom and age — is no guarantee of intelligence or learning. Don’t judge by looks.

  English equivalent

  A beard doesn't make a philosopher. / Don't judge a book by its cover.

  Vocabulary

  • broda — beard
  • mędrzec — wise man, sage
  • czynić — to make, to render

  Grammar note

  'Mędrcem' — instrumental of 'mędrzec', used after 'czynić' (to make someone something): 'nie czyni [kogoś] mędrcem'.

  Cultural context

  Beards were traditionally associated with scholars, elders, and Orthodox clergy, making this proverb a pointed deflation of assumed authority.

  Beginner

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