- English translation
Once your husband knows you were away, carry on with the rest of your day and night.
- Literal wording
If your husband learns of your absence, finish your day and your night.
- Meaning and lesson
The proverb says that concealment has lost its purpose once the person concerned already knows what happened. A rushed return or other attempt to undo the appearance of secrecy will not make the matter seem cleared.
More generally, it applies when a hidden affair has become known and further efforts to cover it up cannot change that fact. Its wife-and-husband scenario reflects traditional wording, not an endorsement of gender stereotypes.
- When it is used
Used when someone considers hiding or reversing an action after the relevant fact has already become known. It conveys that returning, denying, or otherwise trying to restore secrecy will not remove the effect of disclosure; the marital scenario is figurative in wider application.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
Report an issue with this meaning: Once your husband knows you were away, carry on with the rest of your day and night.