Significado
It is better to do something late than never.
Contexto cultural
Despite the proverb, the Dutch are generally very punctual. Arriving late without saying anything is seen as a sign of poor organization. Using this phrase shows you are aware of the social 'rule' you broke. In Flanders, the culture is slightly more relaxed regarding time than in the Northern Netherlands, but the phrase is used identically to soften the social impact of a delay. In Surinamese Dutch, 'Beter laat dan nooit' is also common, often reflecting a more flexible 'island time' approach where the 'never' part is genuinely avoided through persistence. The Afrikaans equivalent 'Beter laat as nooit' is virtually identical and carries the same cultural weight, showing the deep linguistic ties.
Use it with a smile
This phrase is 50% words and 50% body language. A friendly smile makes it an apology; a flat face makes it an excuse.
Don't over-use it
If you are late every single time, saying 'beter laat dan nooit' will eventually annoy people.
Significado
It is better to do something late than never.
Use it with a smile
This phrase is 50% words and 50% body language. A friendly smile makes it an apology; a flat face makes it an excuse.
Don't over-use it
If you are late every single time, saying 'beter laat dan nooit' will eventually annoy people.
The 'Belated' Birthday
In the Netherlands, if you miss a birthday, you can send a 'te late verjaardagskaart'. Writing 'Beter laat dan nooit' inside is the standard protocol.
The Sarcastic Twist
Be aware that if someone says this to you when you arrive late, they might be being slightly sarcastic. Context is key!
Ponte a prueba
Fill in the missing words to complete the proverb.
Beter ____ dan ____.
The standard proverb is 'Beter laat dan nooit'.
Which sentence is grammatically correct?
Choose the correct comparison.
In Dutch, 'dan' is the correct word for comparisons of inequality.
In which situation would you say 'Beter laat dan nooit'?
Match the situation.
The phrase is used to acknowledge lateness while still being present.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'Hier is eindelijk het boek dat ik je zou lenen.' B: 'Oh, bedankt! ________.'
B acknowledges the delay of the book with the proverb.
🎉 Puntuación: /4
Ayudas visuales
Late vs. Never
Banco de ejercicios
4 ejerciciosBeter ____ dan ____.
The standard proverb is 'Beter laat dan nooit'.
Choose the correct comparison.
In Dutch, 'dan' is the correct word for comparisons of inequality.
Match the situation.
The phrase is used to acknowledge lateness while still being present.
A: 'Hier is eindelijk het boek dat ik je zou lenen.' B: 'Oh, bedankt! ________.'
B acknowledges the delay of the book with the proverb.
🎉 Puntuación: /4
Preguntas frecuentes
10 preguntasYes, it is generally considered a polite and lighthearted way to acknowledge a delay in informal and semi-formal settings.
Yes, but it might sound a bit dramatic for such a short delay. For 5 minutes, a simple 'Sorry dat ik een beetje laat ben' is more common.
'Dan' is grammatically correct for comparisons of inequality. Using 'als' is a common mistake made by native speakers, but should be avoided by learners.
In formal writing, you might say: 'Het is verheugend dat dit alsnog is gerealiseerd, ondanks de vertraging.'
If you arrive late to the ceremony, it's better to just slip in quietly. Use the phrase later during the reception when talking to the couple.
Both! You can use it for a late train, a late package, or a late person.
Yes, it is just as common in Flanders as it is in the Netherlands.
No, that would mean it's better to never do something than to do it late, which is the opposite of the intended meaning and not a standard phrase.
No. If you are late for a job interview, a very serious and professional apology is required. This phrase is too casual for that situation.
It's an elliptical expression. The verb 'is' is implied to make the proverb punchier and easier to remember.
Frases relacionadas
De aanhouder wint
similarThe one who persists wins.
Vijf voor twaalf
contrastAt the very last moment.
Eind goed, al goed
builds onAll's well that ends well.
Mosterd na de maaltijd
contrastMustard after the meal.
