two wrongs don't make a right
Also found in: Acronyms.
two wrongs don't make a right
Seeking retribution or revenge for a hurtful or deceitful action is not an appropriate way to resolve a conflict. Just because he insulted you doesn't mean it's OK for you to start a rumor about him—two wrongs don't make a right.
Two wrongs do not make a right.
Prov. Someone else may do something bad and not be punished, but that does not mean you are allowed to do bad things. Jill: I'd really like to humiliate Fred, after he made fun of me in front of everyone at lunch. Jane: Now, now, Jill. Two wrongs don't make a right.
two wrongs do not make a right
A second misdeed or mistake does not cancel the first, as in Don't take his ball just because he took yours-two wrongs do not make a right. This proverbial adage sounds ancient but was first recorded in 1783, as Three wrongs will not make one right.