when in Rome, do as the Romans do
proverb/wɛn ɪn rəʊm, duː æz ðə ˈrəʊmənz duː/
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When in Rome, do as the Romans do is an English proverb meaning you should follow the customs of the place you're in. When you're somewhere new, it's wise to adapt to local habits rather than insist on your own.
📖 Meanings
1follow the local customs of wherever you are
"They eat dinner at 10 p.m. here — when in Rome, do as the Romans do." — They eat dinner at 10 p.m. here — so we should follow the local custom.
2adapt to the rules of an unfamiliar environment
"I don't usually nap, but when in Rome..." — I don't usually nap, but I'll go with the local custom.
🔄 Related proverbs
💬 Common patterns
when in Rome...when in Rome, do as the Romans dowell, when in Rome
❓ Which proverb says you should follow the customs of a new place?