が最後 (ga-saigo): Once ... then inevitably

Once ... then inevitably

Vた + が最後
Notation: N = noun; V dictionary = dictionary-form verb; V stem = the stem before ます; plain clause = plain-form clause; negative stem = the form before ない. Follow the attachment shown above.

Warns that an action will trigger a severe or irreversible consequence.

一度うそをついたが最後、信用を取り戻すのは難しい。

Once you tell a lie, it is difficult to regain trust.

一度秘密を漏らしたが最後、信用を取り戻すのは難しい。

Once you reveal the secret, it is difficult to regain trust.

一度約束を破ったが最後、信用を取り戻すのは難しい。

Once you break a promise, it is difficult to regain trust.

一度仲間を裏切ったが最後、信用を取り戻すのは難しい。

Once you betray one's teammates, it is difficult to regain trust.

一度責任を放棄したが最後、信用を取り戻すのは難しい。

Once you abandon one's responsibilities, it is difficult to regain trust.