A word and a stone let go cannot be recalled.
A word and a stone let go cannot be recalled.
Meaning in plain English
Once spoken, words can reach other people beyond the speaker’s control. The thrown stone illustrates consequences that cannot simply be withdrawn, encouraging care before release while leaving room for apology and repair afterward.
Example
A member checks an angry draft before posting it to a group conversation.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The word and stone are paired because both leave the person who releases them. A speaker may wish to take a statement back, yet cannot erase another person’s hearing or every later repetition of it. The stone gives that loss of control a concrete image. The proverb encourages a pause before sending a harsh message or passing on an uncertain claim. It does not mean that a mistake makes repair impossible. A correction, apology or changed conduct can still matter, even though none rewinds the event. The useful distinction is between undoing an occurrence and responding responsibly to its consequences.
When to use it
Use it to encourage care before speaking or publishing.
Keep in mind
Irreversibility does not make apology, correction or repair pointless.
Edsverb editorial interpretation · agent reviewed · 2026-10-04. This explains the saying; it does not establish its historical origin.
- Source
- Dictionary of Quotations (1893)
Printed citation: Pr. · page_025
Read the original context ↗ - Attribution confidence
- traditional · historical anthology
Preserved as printed; independently unverified. - Historical coordinate
- Undated
No reliable date supplied by the collection. - Rights & edition
- Public domain (United States)
Translations and rights may differ elsewhere.
Provenance and licences ↗