Meaning
La expresión «Better Late Than Never» se traduce al español como «Más vale tarde que nunca». Esta frase se utiliza para indicar que, aunque algo se haya hecho más tarde de lo esperado, es preferible a no hacerlo en absoluto. Se emplea en situaciones en las que el retraso no es ideal, pero aún así se valora el hecho de que se haya completado la tarea o acción.
Por ejemplo, si alguien llega tarde a una reunión pero finalmente asiste, podríamos decir: «Más vale tarde que nunca», resaltando que su presencia, aunque tardía, es apreciada. Es una manera de alentar la acción o el cumplimiento sin enfocarse demasiado en la demora.
En resumen, «Better Late Than Never» enfatiza la importancia de completar algo, incluso si no se ha hecho en el momento perfecto, subrayando que es mejor actuar tarde que no actuar en absoluto.
Example
We arrived at the stadium half-way into the game, but better late than never.
I'm starting my undergraduate degree at 45, but better late than never. I've always wanted to be a nurse.
I just started taking guitar lessons, but better late than never. I finally have the time to learn!
Tips on How to Learn Idioms
Idioms are unpredictable and it makes no sense when you translate them into your first language. But you can do a few things to help learn a few and keep them under your belt!
- Create an idioms journal. Write or document digitally, the idioms that you will use often. Add their meanings, example sentences, and maybe add situations that happened to you and make it your own!
- Understand the situation. Make sure you understand the context in which you can use the idiom and try not to translate or take the idiom literally; one of the reasons why idioms are so difficult. Think about what the speaker is saying and when they say it. Imagine your own situation and see if the idiom fits.
- Practice often. Read them, write them, and say them out loud. You must hear your own voice in order for an idiom to sound natural and blend into the conversation. Include them when talking to friends and family, colleagues or other English speakers.
Practice along with our audio examples, record yourself saying the idioms, or if you need writing practice leave us a message! If you are unsure or struggling, we're here to help.
Quiz
What is an Idiom
An idiom is a phrase or expression that usually presents a figurative, non-literal meaning attached to the phrase. Idioms are not just used in conversations – they're also very common in literature, movies, and music. We utilize them to convey a message in a concise and effective manner, and often have deep cultural or historical significance. They help to create a vivid and memorable image in the minds of the audience.
Idioms are difficult because they do not mean what they literally state. Communication challenges emerge when you translate an idiom in your language; it will not make sense or if it does make sense you may miss the intended meaning.
How to Study Idioms
- Read them. Read books, newspapers, magazine articles, online articles for exposure in written material.
- Watch them. Watch TV shows and movies in English! There are so many streaming services available for you to choose from. Listen attentively and try to understand the context in which they are used.
- Use them. Talk to native speakers and try to incorporate common idioms into your conversations. Try using them during conversations with friends, family, coworkers, or through text.
- Practice. Practice. Practice. Remember that you can't learn all of them! So start with a few that you understand and build your library of idioms from there!
