English Idioms

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Two wrongs don’t make a right

Meaning

The idiom "two wrongs don't make a right" means that doing something wrong or committing an error does not justify or excuse another person from doing the same. It suggests that actions have consequences, and perpetuating negative behavior only leads to further harm.

Usage

  • I know you cheated on your exams, but that doesn't mean I can cheat too. Two wrongs don't make a right.
  • When he accused me of stealing his phone, I told him that two wrongs don't make a right and that I would never stoop so low as to lie.
  • I know you made a mistake at work, but that doesn't mean you can blame your colleague for the project failure. Two wrongs don't make a right.
  • When my friend insulted me, I responded with an insult of my own. But then I realized that two wrongs don't make a right, and I apologized for my behavior.
  • If you want to be successful in life, you need to work hard and avoid making mistakes. Two wrongs don't make a right.

Roots and History

The phrase "two wrongs don't make a right" has been in use since at least the 18th century. It is believed to have originated from a legal case involving the theft of a horse. The thief argued that the horse was worthless, but the court ruled that two wrongs didn't make a right, and he was still held liable for the theft. Over time, the phrase has taken on a more metaphorical meaning, where it applies to a wide range of situations beyond just legal disputes. It is often used to caution against perpetuating negative behavior or attitudes.

Synonyms in English

  • An eye for an eye
  • You reap what you sow
  • Karma
  • The golden rule
  • Actions speak louder than words

Synonyms in other languages

  • In French, "deux erreurs ne font pas un bien" (two errors do not make a good).
  • In Spanish, "dos malas acciones no hacen una buena" (two bad actions do not make a good one).
  • In German, "zwei Fehler lassen nicht eine gute Hand machen" (two mistakes don't make a good hand).
  • In Italian, "due errori non fanno un ben" (two errors don't make a good one).
  • In Arabic, "كل جدول فالين يترىد المسبع الخطير هزمه" (every noble person wants to hit the highest mark with perfection).

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