Be as you would seem to be.
Be as you would seem to be.
Meaning in plain English
Let your conduct match the impression you want to give. The saying asks for substance behind a respectable appearance, rather than a performance designed only to win approval.
Example
A person who describes themselves as dependable tells the team promptly when they cannot meet an agreed deadline.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
Seeming concerns how a person appears to other people; being concerns what they actually do and how they act when appearances are less visible. The proverb brings those two ideas together. Someone who wishes to appear reliable, fair or generous is asked to practice the corresponding qualities. Its useful force is to turn attention from managing a reputation toward sustaining conduct that deserves trust. It does not require a person to satisfy every observer’s expectations or hide their limitations. An honest account of a mistake can align appearance and reality more effectively than an attempt to look flawless.
When to use it
Use it to connect an intended reputation with everyday conduct.
Keep in mind
Integrity does not require appearing perfect or pleasing every observer.
Edsverb editorial interpretation · agent reviewed · 2026-10-04. This explains the saying; it does not establish its historical origin.
- Source
- Dictionary of Quotations (1893)
Printed citation: Pr. · page_026
Read the original context ↗ - Attribution confidence
- traditional · historical anthology
Preserved as printed; independently unverified. - Historical coordinate
- Undated
No reliable date supplied by the collection. - Rights & edition
- Public domain (United States)
Translations and rights may differ elsewhere.
Provenance and licences ↗