PhrasesHub

Wolf in sheep's clothing

    Definitions

      • deceptive appearance
        Referring to someone or something that appears innocent and harmless, but is actually dangerous or malicious

      • false pretense
        Describing a person who hides their true intentions or character behind a facade of kindness or goodness

      • hidden danger
        Representing a situation or object that may seem harmless or beneficial, but actually poses a threat or harm

    Examples of Wolf in sheep's clothing

    • The new sales executive, who appeared friendly and approachable, turned out to be a wolf in sheep's clothing. He manipulated the company's finances to benefit himself and was eventually fired.

      This idiom is used to describe someone who appears harmless or trustworthy on the outside, but in reality, is deceitful or dangerous. It comes from the biblical story of wolves disguising themselves as sheep to attack a flock. In this example, the sales executive's friendly demeanor hid his true intentions, which were ultimately revealed.2. Pulling out all the stops

    • The theater company pulled out all the stops for their latest production, hiring a renowned director and choreographer, and investing in elaborate sets and costumes.

      This idiom is used to describe someone or something that is going all-out, sparing no effort or resources. It comes from the idea of pulling out all the stops on an organ, which produces the loudest and most impressive sound. In this example, the theater company left nothing to chance in their production, utilizing all their resources to create a spectacular show.3. Break a leg

    • Before the actor went on stage, his friends and colleagues wished him luck and said, "Break a leg!"

      This idiom is used to wish someone good luck, although the phrase itself seems contradictory. It comes from the superstition that wishing someone "good luck" could actually bring them bad luck, so instead, people say "break a leg," which is a lighthearted way of saying "may you have a successful performance."4. Spill the beans

    • The politician's opponent accidentally spilled the beans about his campaign strategy during a debate, giving the politician a major advantage.

      This idiom is used to describe someone revealing a secret or surprise, often unintentionally. It comes from the idea of spilling the contents of a container, such as a can of beans, accidentally. In this example, the opponent's slip-up gave the politician a valuable piece of information, which he could use to his advantage.5. A dime a dozen

    • The real estate agent told the buyer that houses in that area were a dime a dozen, implying that they were plentiful and not particularly special.

      This idiom is used to describe something that is common or easily obtainable, often to the point of being worthless. It comes from the idea of selling something for a penny (a cent, or a dime in some regions) each, making it virtually worthless. In this example, the real estate agent was trying to dissuade the buyer from overpaying for a house by implying that there were many similar houses available.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "wolf in sheep's clothing" is commonly used to describe something or someone who appears to be one thing, but is actually another. It conveys the idea of deception, false pretense, and hidden danger. This idiom is often used as a warning to be cautious and not to trust appearances.

    In many cases, this idiom is used to describe people who are not what they seem. It may refer to someone who presents a charming and friendly persona, but is actually manipulative or deceitful. It can also be used to describe a situation or object that appears to be beneficial, but is actually harmful in some way. For example, a seemingly harmless investment opportunity that turns out to be a scam would be referred to as a "wolf in sheep's clothing."

    Origin of "Wolf in sheep's clothing"

    The origin of this idiom can be traced back to a fable by Aesop, a Greek storyteller from the 6th century BC. In the fable, a wolf dresses up in a sheep's skin to blend in with a flock of sheep and deceive them. This story is believed to be the inspiration behind the idiom, as it captures the essence of deception and false appearances.

    The idiom gained popularity in the English language in the 16th century when it was used in various literary works. Shakespeare used a similar phrase in his play "Henry V," where he wrote "Oh beware of a wolf in a sheep's clothing." Over time, the phrase evolved to its current form of "wolf in sheep's clothing" and has become a well-known and commonly used idiom in English.

    In conclusion, the idiom "wolf in sheep's clothing" has been used for centuries to warn against deception and hidden danger. It originated from a fable by Aesop and has been used in various literary works throughout history. Today, it remains a popular and powerful phrase to describe situations or people who are not what they seem.