better late than never
BET-er LAYT than NEV-er
/ˈbetə leɪt ðæn ˈnevə/
It is better for someone or something to arrive or happen late than not to arrive or happen at all.
Used to acknowledge a delay while expressing relief or acceptance.
The story behind the word. This proverb has been used in English since at least the 14th century. It appears in the works of Chaucer and has remained a common social lubricant for centuries.
Word relationships
- at long last: 'At long last' emphasizes the relief of the arrival; 'better late than never' justifies the delay.
- too little, too late: 'Too little, too late' means the delay has made the action useless.
Commonly confused with
- about time: 'About time' is more critical of the delay; 'better late than never' is more forgiving.
Collocations
- well, better late than never
- suppose it's better late than never
Example sentences
- "For better than never is late; never to succeed would be too long a period." Classic Literature
- "I finally finished the book you lent me last year—better late than never, right?" Social apology
Memory hook
Think of a late birthday card—it's still nice to get it, even if the birthday is over. Late is okay, never is not.
When not to use
Can sound sarcastic if someone is extremely late for a very important event.
Fun facts
- The phrase exists in almost every European language, showing its universal social utility.
Related words
Explore more words
serendipity, postpone, hindsight, perseverance, give credit, reprieve
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