“Better late than never”: meaning, origin and examples
What it means
The phrase Better late than never means that it is preferable for something to be done or completed late than not to be completed at all. It emphasizes the value of eventually doing or achieving something, despite delays.
Tone The tone of this phrase is generally forgiving and understanding, emphasizing positivity and consolation when something is delayed.
Where it comes from
The expression is a proverbial phrase dating back to at least the late 14th century, often associated with Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales. A similar Latin phrase, Potius sero quam numquam, mirrors the sentiment.
Examples
- She finally decided to apologize, and I told her, ‘Better late than never.’
- After years of delay, the government finally implemented the policy changes—better late than never.
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