We’ve all encountered someone who seems too good to be true—only to discover later they weren't as innocent as they appeared. "A wolf in sheep's clothing" perfectly captures this kind of deception. In this post, I’ll explain the idiom’s meaning, trace its origins, and show how to use it in your own conversations.
Meaning of A Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing:
"A wolf in sheep’s clothing" refers to a person who appears harmless, kind, or trustworthy but has a hidden, often harmful, agenda. It’s about someone or something that hides its true nature to deceive others.
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Main meaning: A person who pretends to be innocent or harmless but is actually dangerous or deceitful.
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Secondary meaning: It can also describe something that seems one way on the outside but is different on the inside, usually with negative connotations.
Summary Definition: A deceptive individual or thing that pretends to be something they are not, often for malicious reasons.
Origin of A Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing:
This idiom traces back to Aesop’s fables, where the tale of a wolf disguised as a sheep teaches a lesson about deception. The wolf, wearing a sheep’s skin, sneaks into the flock to blend in and catch one of the unsuspecting animals. This clever disguise highlights the theme of false appearances that’s central to the idiom.
Though it originated in ancient Greece, the idiom’s relevance has endured, warning people to look beyond surface appearances and trust their instincts.
Examples in Sentences:
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Formal: "The politician’s promises were nothing but empty words; he was a wolf in sheep’s clothing."
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Casual: "I thought she was my friend, but turns out she’s a wolf in sheep’s clothing!"
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Business: "We need to be cautious with that investor; he seems like a wolf in sheep’s clothing."
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Everyday conversation: "That guy in class? Don’t let his nice guy act fool you. He’s a wolf in sheep’s clothing."
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Literary use: "The seemingly virtuous knight was a wolf in sheep’s clothing, plotting betrayal under the guise of honor."
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Historical: "The monarch, who promised peace, revealed himself as a wolf in sheep’s clothing, only after his deceit was uncovered."
Similar Idioms or Phrases:
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A Trojan horse: Something that seems innocent or harmless but carries a hidden danger.
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A snake in the grass: A deceptive or treacherous person hiding behind a friendly appearance.
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A double-cross: A betrayal by someone who pretends to be loyal.
PERSONAL INSIGHT:
I’ve seen this idiom play out in many situations—whether it’s in politics, business, or personal relationships. It’s a reminder to stay alert and trust our instincts when something seems too good to be true.
CONCLUSION:
The idiom "a wolf in sheep’s clothing" serves as a cautionary reminder to look beyond appearances. Whether in everyday life or more serious matters, be cautious of those who may not be as they seem. Do you use this idiom in your conversations? Share your examples in the comments!