Later’s Better Than Never

Meanings of “Later’s Better Than Never”

The phrase “later’s better than never” means that it is better to do something later, even if it is not done as soon as it was supposed to be, rather than not doing it at all. It suggests that it is never too late to do something and that it is always better to take action, even if it is not done at the ideal time. This phrase is often used to encourage someone to take action or do something they have been procrastinating on.

Origin of “Later’s Better Than Never”

It is unclear when and where the phrase “later’s better than never” first spoke. The phrase is a common saying that encourages someone to take action or do something, even if it is not done immediately. There is no specific information on the origin or history of this phrase.

Examples in Literature

1. In Charles Dickens’s “Great Expectations,” Pip learns that it is better to confess and make amends for his mistakes later in life rather than never confessing. Throughout the novel, Pip struggles with guilt, regrets his actions, and eventually decides to make things right by seeking forgiveness from those he has wronged.
2. In William Shakespeare’s “The Tempest,” the character of Prospero realizes that it is better to forgive and let go of his grudges later in life rather than hold onto them forever. Throughout the play, Prospero grapples with anger and resentment towards those who have wronged him but ultimately decides to forgive and let go to find inner peace.
3. In Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice,” the character of Elizabeth Bennet learns that it is better to recognize and acknowledge her feelings for Mr. Darcy later in the novel rather than never admitting her love for him. Throughout the book, Elizabeth initially resists her feelings for Mr. Darcy due to pride and prejudice. Eventually, she realizes that it is better to follow her heart and confess her love, even if it is later in the story.
4. In the novel “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee, the character Atticus Finch tells his daughter Scout, “It’s never too late to learn.” This is about Scout’s struggles in school and her frustration with learning. Atticus is suggesting that it is never too late to learn and improve oneself, no matter how old one may be.
5. In the poem “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost, the speaker reflects on his decision to take a different path than most people. He says, “I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.” This suggests that taking the road less traveled, even later in life, is better because it can lead to different and potentially better outcomes.

Example in Sentences

1. “I should have started saving for retirement years ago, but it’s better late than never to start now.”
2. “I should have apologized to my friend for my behavior sooner, but better late than never, right?”
3. “I should have gone to the gym more consistently, but starting a regular exercise routine now is better late than never.”
4. “I should have applied to graduate school earlier, but it’s better late than never to start the application process now.”
5. “I should have taken care of that home repair months ago, but it’s better late than never to fix it now.”
6. “I should have apologized to my friend right after I hurt their feelings, but it’s better late than never. I’ll reach out and apologize now.”
7. “I meant to sign up for that online course months ago, but it’s better late than never. I’ll enroll now and see if I can still catch up.”
8. “I should have started exercising regularly years ago, but it’s better late than never. I’ll start going to the gym and try to get in better shape.”

Suggested Readings

What Influenced Chinua Achebe to Write Things Fall Apart?

Robert Frost