proverb · Words worth keeping
Revenge converts a little right into a great wrong.
Revenge converts a little right into a great wrong.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
The saying makes revenge turn a small justified grievance into a greater wrong. It warns that a retaliatory response may exceed what prompted it.
Example
Someone seeks a fair remedy for a grievance instead of answering it with an action that harms others.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The contrast concerns escalation and proportionality rather than proof about every dispute. A responsible reading distinguishes addressing harm from inflicting another harm in return. It does not require silence, forgiveness or abandoning accountability; the actual response and consequences need to be assessed.
When to use it
Use it to examine whether a response creates further wrongdoing.
Keep in mind
A valid complaint remains valid, and the phrase does not require accepting mistreatment.
An interpretation of the words, not a claim about their earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
- Not established
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin. - Historical period
- Date unknown