when in Rome

English

Etymology

An ellipsis (anapodoton) of when in Rome, do as the Romans do.

Proverb

when in Rome

1. (idiomatic, by ellipsis) One should adjust to local customs.

Usage notes

• This shortened form is more common than the full form of the proverb.

Translations

adjust to local customs — see when in Rome, do as the Romans do

See also

• Appendix:English examples of anapodoton
• go native