Better late than never: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Better late than never” mean?

"Better late than never" means that it is preferable to do something late rather than not doing it at all.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I finally finished my project, better late than never.

Example

I missed the bus, but I'll walk instead. Better late than never.

Example

I forgot to wish her a happy birthday, but I sent her a belated message. Better late than never

Is “Better late than never” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Better late than never” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Better late than never” effectively in context?

You can use "Better late than never" to express the idea that it is preferable to do something or arrive somewhere late than not to do it at all. It emphasizes the importance of taking action, even if it's delayed. For example, if a friend apologizes for being late to your birthday party, you might say, 'No worries, "better late than never". I'm just glad you made it.'

• 1. Apologies

  I know I'm late, but better late than never. I still wanted to show up and support you.

• 2. Deadlines

  I finally finished the project, even though it's past the deadline. But hey, better late than never, right?

• 3. Delayed Responses

  I apologize for the delay in responding to your email. But remember, better late than never.

Similar phrases to “Better late than never”:

It's better to be late than never to arrive

It is preferable to arrive late than not to arrive at all

Example

I know I'm running behind schedule, but it's better to be late than never to arrive. I'll be there soon.

Late is better than absent

Being present, even if late, is better than not being present at all

Example

I apologize for my tardiness, but late is better than absent. I didn't want to miss the meeting.

Better to do it late than not at all

Taking action, even if delayed, is better than not taking any action

Example

I know I should have started earlier, but better to do it late than not at all. I'll work on it now.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Better late than never” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Better late than never" is unknown.

Is “Better late than never” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Better late than never" is a common proverb used in everyday conversation. It is often used to express understanding and forgiveness towards someone who is late or has missed a deadline.

What tone does “Better late than never” have?

"Better late than never" conveys a forgiving and understanding tone. It is used to reassure others that their actions, even if delayed, are still appreciated or accepted.

Can “Better late than never” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Better late than never" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a widely recognized proverb that conveys the idea of valuing action over timeliness. You can use it in various situations, such as personal conversations, professional emails, or public speeches.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'I know I'm late, but "better late than never". I still wanted to show up and support you.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Well, "better late than never"!' to imply acceptance of a delayed action.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• late is better than never
• action is better than inaction
• doing something late is better than doing nothing
• it's better to be delayed than to not do it
• tardiness is preferable to absence

Antonyms

• better early than late
• punctuality is key
• timeliness is important
• arriving on time is better than arriving late
• it's better to meet deadlines than to miss them