Words spoken can never be recalled.
Words spoken can never be recalled.
Meaning in plain English
The saying treats spoken words as something that cannot be taken back. It emphasises that an utterance may leave an effect after the speaker regrets it.
Example
Someone corrects a careless remark and acknowledges its effect instead of claiming it was never said.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
Never is absolute, but the useful distinction is between having already spoken and later trying to repair the result. A correction or apology can still matter. The phrase should encourage care without suggesting that a mistaken statement makes repair pointless.
When to use it
Use it to discuss care before speaking and responsibility afterward.
Keep in mind
Words can be corrected or retracted even though their earlier effect cannot be simply erased.
Edsverb editorial interpretation · agent reviewed · 2026-10-05. This explains the saying; it does not establish its historical origin.
- Source
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Supplied reference A; unit 97; PDF page 18
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