Adapt to the customs and behavior of the place you are visiting or the group you are with.
This phrase originates from Saint Augustine's advice in the 4th century, when he told Saint Ambrose that when he was in Rome, he should follow Roman customs, but when in Milan, follow Milanese customs. The saying became popular in English by the 1600s.
The phrase reflects a sophisticated understanding of cultural relativism that was quite advanced for its time. It suggests that there's wisdom in temporary adaptation rather than stubborn adherence to one's own ways, making it an early form of diplomatic and social intelligence.
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