Proverb / Kotowaza
覆水盆に返らず
Once something is done, it cannot be undone.
Spilled water does not return to the tray
Quick Answer
Once something is done, it cannot be undone.
- Literal Image
- Spilled water does not return to the tray
- How to Use It
- Used to describe situations where a mistake has been made, trust has been lost, or a relationship has ended, emphasizing that regret will not change the outcome.
Meaning
This proverb expresses the idea that once an action has been taken or a relationship has been severed, it is impossible to return things to their original state. It serves as a reminder that certain consequences are permanent and irreversible.
Literal Image
Spilled water does not return to the tray
How to Use It
Used to describe situations where a mistake has been made, trust has been lost, or a relationship has ended, emphasizing that regret will not change the outcome.
Tone
Carries a somber and cautionary tone, can be used in formal or literary contexts.
Examples
一度失った信頼は簡単には取り戻せない。覆水盆に返らずだ。
Once trust is lost, it cannot be easily regained. It is like spilled water that cannot return to the tray.
別れた恋人によりを戻そうとしても、覆水盆に返らずである。
Even if you try to get back with an ex-lover, what's done is done; the water has already been spilled.
SNSに投稿した不用意な発言は、削除しても覆水盆に返らずだ。
A careless post on social media cannot be undone even if you delete it; the damage is permanent.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
The grammar uses the classical 'zu' negation, but the core vocabulary and imagery are relatively straightforward for intermediate learners.
覆水
ふくすい / fukusui
spilled water
盆
ぼん / bon
tray
返らず
かえらず / kaerazu
does not return
Usage Profile
Misread Risk
While it can apply to relationships, it can be used for any irreversible mistake; avoid using it in contexts where something can still be fixed.
Search As
Related Proverbs
Index
Topics, Situations, and Tags
Topics
Situations
Tags
Source Note
Where did this entry get its data from? The reference links are listed below. To understand how to read this section, see Data Sources.