Explaining "Better late than never"

What does it mean?

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

Origin

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.