This saying translates to 'The habit does not make the monk, but it distinguishes him.' It is used to express that the way someone dresses or appears doesn't define their personality or qualities, but it can give us certain clues or make them stand out from the rest.
Examples
- Spanish: El lleva siempre traje y corbata, pero eso no significa que sea serio y formal. Recuerda que el hábito no hace al monje, pero lo distingue.
- English: He always wears a suit and tie, but that doesn't mean he's serious and formal. Remember, the habit doesn't make the monk, but it distinguishes him.