Explaining "Never say never"

Reviewed and edited by

Lloyd Cooper 09/10/2024, 09:58

English.me team member

What does it mean?

"Never say never" means that one should not rule out any possibility, as situations can change, and things once deemed impossible may become possible.

Tone

Optimistic and cautionary

Origin

The phrase is a proverb that has been used in English since at least the 19th century to convey the idea of keeping an open mind about future possibilities. Its precise origins are unclear, but it has been popularized in modern times by its use in songs, films, and books.

Examples of usage

I told myself I'd never move back to my hometown, but now, never say never.
She said she'd never try skydiving, but then she thought, never say never.