Better Late Than Never Meaning, Examples, Synonyms

The meaning of the idiom better late than never is that it’s better to do something late than not do it at all.

The origin of this idiom ‘better late than never’, like so many interesting phrases, may be found in classic literature. It was first seen in 1386 in The Yeoman’s Tale, which is then featured in The Canterbury Tales, and is attributed to Geoffrey Chaucer: “For better than never is late; never to succeed would be too long a period.”

Better Late Than Never Meaning and Origin

“Better late than never” means that it is preferable to do something late than not do it at all. The phrase emphasizes the value of completing a task, even if it is delayed, rather than abandoning it entirely.

The origin of this proverb can be traced back to ancient times. It is believed to have originated from the writings of the Roman historian Titus Livius (Livy), who wrote in Latin: “Potius sero quam numquam”, meaning “Better late than never.” The phrase later appeared in English literature, with Geoffrey Chaucer using a similar sentiment in the 14th century. Over time, it became a common saying in English, reinforcing the idea that delayed efforts are still worthwhile.

Usage With Examples

The idiom better late than never is used when people have to express the feeling of it’s better to arrive late in the event than to not show up at all.

Mentioned below are the examples where you can use the idiom better late than never:

• I know that it took me weeks to send the letter, but better late than never. 
• We only arrived at the movie at halftime but better late than never.
• The dress arrived after the dance but better late than never—I’ll wear it to the next party.

Also Read: Idioms Meaning with Example

Synonyms and Similar Words to Better Late Than Never

Mentioned below are similar phrases to better late than never:

• It’s never too late to start.
• That is not lost that comes at last.
• Being tardy is better than a complete absence.
• Better to do it late than to never do it at all.
• Late is better than never.

Check out: 50+ Idioms and Phrases Questions

Better Late Than Never Meaning Quiz

Here are 10 multiple-choice questions (MCQs):

Q1. What does “Better late than never” mean?
a) It is better to be early than late
b) Completing something late is better than not doing it at all
c) Punctuality is the most important virtue
d) If you’re late, you shouldn’t bother completing the task

Answer: b) Completing something late is better than not doing it at all

Q2. Which of the following situations best reflects the proverb “Better late than never”?
a) Arriving at an event after it has ended
b) Submitting an assignment after the deadline but still getting feedback
c) Skipping an important meeting entirely
d) Never attempting to complete a difficult task

Answer: b) Submitting an assignment after the deadline but still getting feedback

Q3. Which ancient writer is believed to have originated the phrase?
a) Plato
b) Aristotle
c) Titus Livius (Livy)
d) William Shakespeare

Answer: c) Titus Livius (Livy)

Q4. Which of these proverbs has a similar meaning to “Better late than never”?
a) Time and tide wait for no man
b) A stitch in time saves nine
c) It’s never too late to mend
d) Early bird catches the worm

Answer: c) It’s never too late to mend

Q5. Which of these is NOT a correct use of “Better late than never”?
a) “I finally learned to drive at 40. Better late than never!”
b) “She apologized years later, but better late than never.”
c) “He was late to the meeting, so he left without entering.”
d) “After years of delay, the law was passed. Better late than never.”

Answer: c) “He was late to the meeting, so he left without entering.”

Q6. In what kind of situations would “Better late than never” NOT be appropriate?
a) When arriving late to a wedding
b) When apologizing after many years
c) When missing an opportunity that cannot be regained
d) When finishing a book after a long time

Answer: c) When missing an opportunity that cannot be regained

Q7. Which English writer expressed a similar idea to “Better late than never” in the 14th century?
a) William Shakespeare
b) Geoffrey Chaucer
c) Charles Dickens
d) Jane Austen

Answer: b) Geoffrey Chaucer

Q8. What is the opposite meaning of “Better late than never”?
a) Never put off until tomorrow what you can do today
b) Slow and steady wins the race
c) Actions speak louder than words
d) Two wrongs don’t make a right

Answer: a) Never put off until tomorrow what you can do today

Q9. Which of these best represents the idea of “Better late than never”?
a) Giving up on learning a skill because it’s too late
b) Trying something new, even at an old age
c) Refusing to do a task if it can’t be done on time
d) Avoiding responsibilities altogether

Answer: b) Trying something new, even at an old age

Q10. Which field uses the phrase “Better late than never” to encourage action despite delays?
a) Medicine
b) Education
c) Business
d) All of the above

Answer: d) All of the above

Also Read: Go on a Wild Goose Chase

Check out other idioms here:

Live and Learn	A Bull in a China Shop
Come Up With	Behind the Eight Ball
Up In The Air	Make Headway
All in All	In the Offing
Alarums and Excursions	Roll Up Your Sleeves

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