Japanese meaning of 撃っていいのは、撃たれる覚悟のある奴だけだ

Reading:
うっていいのは、うたれるかくごのあるやつだけだ (Utte ii no wa, utareru kakugo no aru yatsu dake da.)

English Translation:

Only those prepared to be shot may shoot.

Scene & Cultural Context

Scene Context:


Lelouch sternly delivers this line, emphasizing responsibility and consequences inherent in violent action.

Cultural Context:


Reflects cultural attitudes emphasizing moral responsibility and accepting consequences. Widely quoted for its philosophical depth, often humorously or seriously to highlight accountability.


Grammar & Learning Points

Grammar Point

• 撃っていい (utte ii) = permissible to shoot
• 覚悟 (kakugo) = mental preparedness or resolve, emphasizes accepting consequences

Trap for English Speakers

Can seem overly formal or dramatic; in Japanese, it carries serious moral implications about responsibility and readiness for consequences.

Example

Basic Example

ネットで悪口を言う人に警告として、
「批判していいのは、批判される覚悟のある人だけ。」

As a warning to those criticizing others online,
'You should only criticize if you’re prepared to be criticized back.'