better late than never

proverb/ˈbɛtər leɪt ðæn ˈnɛvər/ 🔊 listen

Better late than never is an English proverb meaning that doing something late is still better than not doing it at all. It's used to excuse a delay or to encourage someone who has finally taken action, however overdue.

📖 Meanings

1doing something late is better than not doing it at all
"He finally apologized after a week — better late than never." — He finally apologized after a week — at least he did it.
2a reassuring remark that forgives a delay
"You started learning at 50? Better late than never!" — You started learning at 50? It's never too late!

🔄 Related proverbs

it's never too late →better safe than sorry →slow and steady wins the race →

💬 Common patterns

better late than never!well, better late than neverstill, better late than never
❓ Someone finally did something, very late. How do you reassure them?