Death is deaf and hears no denial.

Death cannot be persuaded to pass someone by. The image of deafness makes refusal and pleading equally powerless against it.

The proverb treats mortality as an unavoidable limit rather than a matter open to argument or personal choice.

Use the proverb when someone speaks as though determination, protest, or disbelief could keep death away. Its blunt imagery suits a sober reflection on mortality, but may feel harsh when addressing someone in fresh grief.