Meaning
A person's true nature or character remains until death.
Cultural Background
In Spain, the phrase is often associated with the 'Castilian' character—serious, stubborn, and proud of one's roots. In Mexico, it's frequently used in the context of 'machismo' or strong family patriarchs who refuse to adapt to modern times. Argentines might use it with a bit of irony or 'psicoanálisis' flair to describe someone's 'esencia'. Used affectionately to describe the 'terquedad' (stubbornness) of people from the Paisa region.
Use it for compliments too!
While often used for flaws, you can use it to praise someone's lifelong kindness or talent.
Don't change the gender
Remember: 'Ella es genio y figura', never 'genia'.
Meaning
A person's true nature or character remains until death.
Use it for compliments too!
While often used for flaws, you can use it to praise someone's lifelong kindness or talent.
Don't change the gender
Remember: 'Ella es genio y figura', never 'genia'.
Test Yourself
Complete the proverb with the correct words.
Genio y _______ hasta la _______.
The traditional rhyming form uses 'figura' and 'sepultura'.
In which situation is this proverb most appropriate?
Your friend, who has been a vegetarian for 10 years, suddenly decides to eat a steak.
The proverb is for when people *don't* change.
Choose the best response.
A: '¿Viste que el abuelo volvió a perder sus llaves?' B: '_______'
It's a natural response to a recurring, predictable behavior.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesGenio y _______ hasta la _______.
The traditional rhyming form uses 'figura' and 'sepultura'.
Your friend, who has been a vegetarian for 10 years, suddenly decides to eat a steak.
The proverb is for when people *don't* change.
A: '¿Viste que el abuelo volvió a perder sus llaves?' B: '_______'
It's a natural response to a recurring, predictable behavior.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsIt depends on the tone. It can be a bit blunt, so it's usually better to use it when talking *about* someone or with close friends/family.
No, in this context 'figura' means their behavior or the way they present themselves to the world.
Related Phrases
La cabra siempre tira al monte
synonymPeople always return to their natural instincts.
Moro viejo nunca será buen cristiano
similarOld habits/beliefs are impossible to change.
Renovarse o morir
contrastReinvent yourself or die.
