cover a multitude of sins

cover a multitude of sins

To conceal things that are unattractive or problematic. I need to wear a girdle to cover a multitude of sins. New drywall will cover a multitude of sins in the kitchen.
See also: cover, multitude, of, sin
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

multitude of sins, cover a

Compensate for numerous evils, as in You may not be offering to help with the fair, but that big donation covers a multitude of sins . This expression originated in the New Testament (I Peter 4:8): "And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins."
See also: cover, multitude, of
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.

cover a multitude of sins

or

hide a multitude of sins

If something covers a multitude of sins or hides a multitude of sins, it hides a lot of mistakes or things that are unpleasant or unattractive. `Strong, centralized government' is a term that can cover a multitude of sins. Wood is great for hiding a multitude of sins — rough, bumpy walls, pipes, and even wallpaper you can't face stripping. Note: This expression is used humorously.
See also: cover, multitude, of, sin
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed.

cover a multitude of sins

conceal or gloss over a lot of problems or defects.
This phrase refers to 1 Peter 4:8: ‘For charity shall cover the multitude of sins’.
See also: cover, multitude, of, sin
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary

cover/hide a ˌmultitude of ˈsins

(often humorous) used to say that something is not as good as it looks, sounds, etc: The term ‘abstract art’ covers a multitude of sins. A coat of paint can hide a multitude of sins.This expression comes from the Bible. A multitude is a very large number of things.
See also: cover, hide, multitude, of, sin
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • cover/hide a multitude of sins
  • multitude of sins, cover a
  • from cover to cover
  • read (something) cover to cover
  • cover-up
  • cover up
  • duck and cover
  • cover all the bases
  • cover the territory
  • boarded up
References in periodicals archive
I know that phrase can cover a multitude of sins, but, in this case, it looks to be true.
BRIDGE TOO FAR
A big white tablecloth is a lifesaver if your outdoor table is a bit makeshift - it will cover a multitude of sins.
The great outdoors; FOOD SPECIAL Fresco; Eating outside is one of the best things about summer, so here's some inspiration for doing it in style
"This group are good on the counterattack and have got good athleticism which goes a long way when you're at a young age and can cover a multitude of sins."
Parkie relieved to squeeze through
And for the rest of us mere mortals, with lumps and bumps in all the wrong places, check out the fantastic maxi dresses available, which help to cover a multitude of sins, as well as the great range of slightly more conservative, but no less glamorous, party dresses which are on the rails.
Be the belle of every ball; ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO CHRISTMAS ATODIAD HANFODOL Y NADOLIG
A MAXI is a must - they look stunning, can be dressed up or dressed down - and can cover a multitude of sins to boot.
Style file
Coats also cover a multitude of sins, put a good coat on and don't worry about what you're wearing underneath -- but remember not to take it off!
Coats can cover a multitude of sins
Granted, big pants and boy shorts may cover a multitude of sins for older, more voluptuous women but for any gal under 40 whose behind has yet to fall victim to gravity they still have plenty to offer.
LINDSAY FERGUS; FASHION SHOCK OF THE YEAR!
CHIANTI can cover a multitude of sins from a ceramic flask served in a piazza in Rome to a world-class Castello dei Rampola Sammarco.
Wine
Yes, it may be predictable, but a decent cast and some stirring music cover a multitude of sins.
The Fighting Temptations (Sky Movies Comedy, 8pm)
Thank God that His love really does cover a multitude of sins. Does yours?
COMMENT & ANALYSIS: THOUGHT for the DAY
Easy to wear, it's lightweight, flattering to most figures and it will cover a multitude of sins at this time of the year.
Style Counsel: Return of the Mac