mieux vaut tard que jamais

/mjø vɔ taʁ kə ʒɛmɛ/◆proverb

better late than never

Mieux vaut tard que jamais, j'ai enfin terminé mon projet.

Better late than never, I finally finished my project.

◆ What It Really Means

Encouragement that delayed action is better than inaction, emphasizing the value of taking action even if it's late.

¶ Literal Meaning

It is better late than never

Literal Breakdown

mieuxbetter+vautis worth+tardlate+quethan+jamaisnever

◇ Mental Image

The mental image of someone taking action after a delay but still achieving a positive outcome.

◈ When to Use

A friend who finally starts studying for an exam the night before, and you say, 'Mieux vaut tard que jamais!' to encourage them.

◉ Cultural Note

This proverb is widely used in French-speaking cultures to emphasize the importance of taking action, even if it's delayed, rather than giving up.

informal

It is better to do something late than not to do it at all, emphasizing that delayed action is preferable to inaction.

Il a envoyé ses excuses, mieux vaut tard que jamais.

He sent his apologies, better late than never.

Mieux vaut tard que jamais, elle a décidé de consulter un médecin.

Better late than never, she decided to see a doctor.

Synonyms

it's never too late

This proverb is often used to comfort or encourage someone who has acted belatedly, emphasizing that their action is still worthwhile.

This proverb originates from French and reflects the idea that delayed action is better than no action at all.

This expression is commonly used to encourage someone who has taken action after a delay, reassuring them that it's still valuable.

Dictionnaire Français-Anglais