proverb · Words worth keeping
Sorry puts no coins in the purse.
Sorry puts no coins in the purse.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
Sorry putting no coins in a purse distinguishes an apology from material repair. The saying asks what an expression of regret actually remedies.
Example
Someone apologises for a mistake and helps address its practical consequences rather than assuming the words finish the repair.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
A responsible interpretation does not dismiss sincere apology or make every harm a financial transaction. Some consequences require practical action, while the appropriate repair depends on what happened and the affected person’s needs. Money alone may also be insufficient.
When to use it
Use it to connect apology with appropriate action.
Keep in mind
No universal financial remedy or absence of value in sincere apology is established.
An interpretation of the words, not a claim about their earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
Mongolia
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin.- Historical period
- Date unknown
- Culture
- Mongolia