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It's preferable to do something late than to never do it at all.
I know you forgot our anniversary, but better late than never—I appreciate the flowers!
The gift was late, but it was still a kind gesture.
She apologized a week after the argument, but better late than never.
The apology came late, but it was still meaningful.
Often used to encourage someone who is late in doing something positive or necessary.
Use this proverb when someone completes a task late but you want to encourage their effort. Avoid using it for excuses—it’s meant to praise delayed completion, not justify chronic lateness.
This phrase carries a positive connotation. It should not be used sarcastically or to criticize lateness without acknowledging the effort.
The phrase dates back to the 16th century, with earliest known usage in a 1576 collection of proverbs by John Heywood. The idea of valuing delayed action over inaction reflects a practical, time-tested wisdom in English-speaking cultures.
This proverb is used to soften the disappointment of lateness while still acknowledging the effort. It implies that the action taken, even if delayed, is better than no action at all. Common in both spoken and written English, especially in informal contexts.