- English translation
If you do me irreparable harm, no later apology can make me whole again.
- Literal wording
If you strike me and cut off my head, then seek reconciliation with me, where will you bring me a head from?
- Meaning and lesson
The saying condemns an attempt to mend relations after an injury has caused permanent, irreversible loss. Once the essential damage is done, reconciliation cannot restore what was taken away.
It stresses that remorse and peacemaking have limits. An apology may matter before harm becomes final, but it is no substitute for preventing a disaster whose consequences cannot be undone.
- When it is used
Use it when someone offers peace, regret, or compensation only after causing damage that cannot realistically be repaired. Its deliberately severe image of irreversible harm makes it best suited to serious grievances rather than minor mistakes or sensitive situations.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
Report an issue with this meaning: If you do me irreparable harm, no later apology can make me whole again.