the error of your ways

the error of (one's) ways

What has been wrong, hurtful, or unfair about one's behavior or way of life. He'll never see the error of his ways if he keeps being rewarded for the bad decisions he's made. I'm afraid it took me too long to realize the error of my ways. But it's not too late for you.
See also: error, of, way
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

the ˌerror of your ˈways

(formal or humorous) what is wrong and should be changed about the kind of life you are leading: While he was in prison, a social worker visited him in an attempt to make him see the error of his ways.
See also: error, of, way
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • the error of (one's) ways
  • put one's foot in it/one's mouth, to
  • (there's) no peace/rest for the wicked
  • at (one's) doorstep
  • at doorstep
  • at expense
  • at somebody's expense
  • at someone's expense
  • at (one's) expense
  • (one's) bark is worse than (one's) bite
References in classic literature
"You are an unbeliever now," she continued gently, "but should we be fortunate enough to escape the clutches of the black pirates and come again to the court of Matai Shang I think that we shall find an argument to convince you of the error of your ways. And--," she hesitated, "perhaps we shall find a way to keep you as--as--one of us."
The Gods of Mars
"Do you mean to turn from the error of your ways, and be a good husband, a good father, and so forth; as I do, when I get shut of you and all these rollicking devils you call your friends?
The Tenant of Wildfell Hall
Wise voters showed you the error of your ways, Coun Wilson, failing to give you and the Conservatives their trust That's democracy!
That's democracy, Mr Wilson! Letters letters@coventrytelegraph.net
I appreciate that you think you've seen the error of your ways but it's taken you six years to realise.
Dear MIRIAM: SHE CAN'T FORGIVE BULLYING; YOUR VERDICT
You seem to have recognised the error of your ways,but only time will tell.
SPORTS LETTERS: Credit to brave Houllier
Like a stick that bends and goes crooked even in water, the line that is never made straight I am the error of your ways.
The Mirror for Francis of Assisi