Misfortune is not that which can be avoided, but that which cannot.
Misfortune is not that which can be avoided, but that which cannot.
Meaning in plain English
Misfortune restricted to what cannot be avoided distinguishes unavoidable difficulty from a preventable problem. The saying frames judgment around control.
Example
A review considers actual options available at the time without withholding help from those affected.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
A critical reading does not blame a harmed person merely because prevention seems possible in hindsight. Access and circumstances constrain choices. A useful application checks what was realistically known and possible while continuing support, rather than declaring avoidable harm unworthy of concern.
When to use it
Use it critically to examine control and hindsight with support retained.
Keep in mind
No culpability or lack of need established by supposed avoidability.
Edsverb editorial interpretation · agent reviewed · 2026-10-05. This explains the saying; it does not establish its historical origin.
- Country attributed by the collection
United Kingdom · source-attributed; earliest origin unverified
- Source
- Contributor-provided wisdom reference
Supplied reference B; unit 954; PDF page 83; collection label: United Kingdom
Reuse and collection notes ↗ - Attribution confidence
- traditional · supplied collection
Preserved as printed; independently unverified. - Historical coordinate
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No reliable date supplied by the collection. - Rights & edition
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