"It is never too late to learn"...

by maeyam
(tehran-karaj-iran)

Could you explain the meaning of the proverb ..."it is never too late to learn", with an example?


Hi Maeyam,

Proverbs can sometimes be quite confusing, but luckily this one is rather literal. So lets imagine some situations.

Example 1: I started a new job not long ago. I did my training and I went in for my first day of work. I knew from the first hour that the job was wrong for me. That I would not be happy. But I thought, it's too late now. I have signed a contract and have started work. I have to work here. NO, I didn't. It is never to late to change your mind. Just because you sign a contract does not mean you have to stay in a job that isn't right for you.

Example 2: I just bought my wedding dress (I'm getting married next year in 2009...yay!). I tried on a great dress in a size 12. It fit very well. When I ordered the dress she suggested I get a 14 (because I have larger hips). So I said ok, but on the drive home I realized that a 14 would be too big. So I called her back and asked if it was too late to change my order. She said "It is never too late to change your order...unless it has already been sent...and it hasn't!".

Example 3: If you are very unhealthy and you suffer a heart attack...you might think that it is too late to change your habits and get healthy. Your doctor might tell you, "It is never too late to make healthy decisions and get healthier".

Basically when you want to do something, that might be beyond your time...(for example a 60 year old who wants to go back to University), you could say.."It's never too late to get an education!"

If you want to do something, but think the time has past and you can't do it...think again because it is never to late for anything.

My last example: It is never too late to learn English!

I hope that helps and thanks for the question Maeyam.

For more on proverbs read more about
how proverbs can help you learn English.