How to Use 'Better Late Than Never' in English: Phrases for Tardiness and Timing


Introduction ⏰

“Better late than never” is a common English saying. But how can we use it and other related expressions? Let’s explore various ways to talk about lateness and timing in English!

Basic Expressions 🕐

Expressions About Lateness

  • Better late than never
  • Running late
  • To be behind schedule
  • To miss the boat
  • In the nick of time
  • At the eleventh hour
  • Tardy / Late
  • Punctual / On time
  • Delayed / Postponed
  • Timely / Prompt
  • Belated
  • Overdue

Useful Expressions and Examples ⏳

When Talking About Being Late

Example 1: “I’m running a bit late, but I’ll be there soon.”

“Sorry for the delay, I got stuck in traffic.”

When Talking About Punctuality

Example 2: “He’s always punctual, never a minute late.”

“The train arrived right on schedule.”

When Using “Better Late Than Never”

Example 3: “I finally finished my degree at 40. Better late than never!”

“You’re an hour late, but better late than never, I suppose.”

Conversation Examples 🗣️

Conversation About a Late Project

A: “Have you finished the report yet?”

B: “Not yet, but I’m working on it now.”

A: “It was due yesterday!”

B: “I know, I’m sorry. Better late than never, right?”

A: “Well, just get it done as soon as possible.”

Talking About a Delayed Party

A: “I heard you’re throwing a birthday party for your mom.”

B: “Yes, we’re doing it next month.”

A: “But her birthday was in January, wasn’t it?”

B: “It was, but we couldn’t arrange it then. Better late than never!”

Grammar Points 📝

Using Prepositions with Time Expressions

  1. on + specific day or date Example: “The meeting is on Monday.”

  2. at + specific time Example: “The train leaves at 3 PM.”

  3. in + month, year, or period of time Example: “I’ll finish the project in June.”

Common Mistakes ❌

Incorrect: “I’m late for 5 minutes.” Correct: “I’m 5 minutes late.” OR “I’m late by 5 minutes.”

Incorrect: “The party will start in 7 PM.” Correct: “The party will start at 7 PM.”

Situational Phrases 🎯

Apologizing for Being Late

  • “I’m so sorry for keeping you waiting.”
  • “My apologies for the delay.”
  • “I didn’t mean to be late.”

Responding to Lateness

  • “No worries, these things happen.”
  • “It’s not a problem, we’re just getting started.”
  • “I’m glad you made it, even if you’re a bit late.”

Idioms 🎭

  • “Time is money”
  • “The early bird catches the worm”
  • “Fashionably late”

Cultural Notes 🌏

In some cultures, being a few minutes late is acceptable, while in others, strict punctuality is expected. In English-speaking countries, attitudes towards lateness can vary:

“In business settings, it’s usually best to be on time or even a few minutes early.”

“For social gatherings, being a few minutes late is often okay, but it’s polite to let the host know if you’ll be very late.”

Summary ⏱️

There are many ways to talk about lateness and timing in English. Choose the right expressions based on the situation and how formal or casual you need to be.

Key Points to Remember

  1. Learn basic vocabulary related to time and lateness
  2. Practice using prepositions correctly with time expressions
  3. Be aware of cultural attitudes towards punctuality

Remember, when it comes to learning English, better late than never! Keep practicing these expressions to improve your fluency.




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