once a (something), always a (something)

once a (something), always a (something)

A person's innate or fundamental nature is not something they are willing or able to change. He says he's trying to leave his life of crime behind, but once a criminal, always a criminal. Even years after leaving the stage, she still can't resist performing—once an actor, always an actor.See also: always, once

once a —, always a —

a person cannot change their fundamental nature. 1993 Margaret Atwood The Robber Bride She was once a Catholic…and once a Catholic, always a Catholic, according to her mother. See also: always, once, something

once a..., always a...

in certain respects people do not change, although circumstances change: He can’t resist explaining things in detail. Once a teacher, always a teacher.See also: always, once