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Definition 2024


no_harm,_no_foul

no harm, no foul

English

Noun

no harm, no foul

  1. Encapsulation of the idea that although technically a breach of some code or law may have occurred there is no need for punishment, apology or retribution if no actual damage occurred.
    He parked in my space but I was away at the time: no harm, no foul.

Usage notes

Phrases with the same construction (i.e. no x, no y) are common and productive. See the related terms below. Compare the expression de minimis non curat lex (the law will not cure (or concern itself with) trifles), de minimis.[1]

Related terms

See also

References

  1. Bryan A. Garner (editor-in-chief), Black's Law Dictionary, Seventh Edition, West (publisher, 1999), page 443.