The phrase "When in Rome" is an abbreviation of the proverb "When in Rome, do as the Romans do." It means that when you visit a place, you should adopt the customs, traditions, or practices of that place. Essentially, it encourages adapting yourself to the local way of doing things in order to fit in or show respect for the local culture. The saying is often used to justify going along with the behavior or customs of others when you are in a new or unfamiliar environment. The origin of the proverb is attributed to Saint Ambrose in the 4th century during a discussion with Saint Augustine about differences in religious practices between Rome and Milan. Ambrose advised Augustine to follow the customs of the place he was in to avoid scandal, which gave rise to this saying. Over time, it became a broader expression advising people to adapt to local customs or social norms wherever they go. In summary, "When in Rome" means:
- Follow the local customs and practices of the place you are visiting.
- Adjust your behavior to fit in with the people around you.
- Be flexible and open to new experiences by respecting traditions different from your own.
