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  What it means

  A Romani man testifies through his children — one’s character and values are revealed by how one’s children turn out.

  English equivalent

  The apple doesn't fall far from the tree.

  Vocabulary

  • Cygan — Romani man (historical term)
  • świadczyć — to testify, to bear witness, to demonstrate
  • dzieci — children

  Grammar note

  'Swymi dziećmi' — instrumental plural of 'dzieci' with the reflexive possessive 'swój'.

  Cultural context

  An old proverb reflecting historical stereotypes. The underlying meaning is universal: parents are judged by their children's behaviour.

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