Meaning of all that glitters is not gold (what is it, concept and definition)

What is All that glitters is not gold:

"All that glitters is not gold" is a popular adage that invites us to distrust appearances and, instead, to value the substance of the people and the world around us.

According to the saying, the good as a quality is not found in the external aspect, but in the nature of things or in the substance of people.

That is why the saying invites you to have an attentive and vigilant attitude, to be able to perceive what is hidden behind appearances.

By appearances the saying can be referred not only to the physical aspect. Also flattering words, populist speeches, careful productions, etc.

The saying uses the image of gold as a metaphor for good or good, since it is considered a precious and valuable metal that is attributed, among many other qualities, the quality of shine.

However, this property of shining or glittering is not exclusive to gold, but many lower quality and worthless metals can have it.

From this image it is concluded that, just as in the material world unsuspecting people are cheated or swindled with imitations of gold, so it can happen in life regarding human relationships and the circumstances we live in.

Some variants or equivalent phrases of this statement may be the following: "not everything that glitters is gold"; "All that glitters is not gold, nor all that whitens flour," or "Not all the mountain is oregano."

See also:

• Deliver me from the meek water, which from me bravely I say. Sayings about friendship.