I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country. (Nathan Hale)

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Meaning · English

English proverb; full definition pending editorial review.

Sources & notes

Listed on English Wikiquote “English proverbs” (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-31).

Common questions

What does “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country. (Nathan Hale)” mean?

English proverb; full definition pending editorial review.

Is “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country. (Nathan Hale)” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.