Significado
It's better to do something late than not at all.
Contexto cultural
In Germany, punctuality is highly valued. This phrase is used as a polite way to acknowledge a breach of that norm, showing that the person is aware of the delay. Similar to Germany, but often used with a slightly more relaxed tone in social settings. Swiss culture is extremely time-conscious. Using this phrase is seen as a necessary social grace when a delay is unavoidable.
Pronunciation
Remember that 'sp' at the start of a word in German is always 'shp'.
Social usage
Use this to soften the blow of being late. It shows you care about the task.
Significado
It's better to do something late than not at all.
Pronunciation
Remember that 'sp' at the start of a word in German is always 'shp'.
Social usage
Use this to soften the blow of being late. It shows you care about the task.
Teste-se
Complete the proverb.
Besser spät als ___.
The fixed form of the proverb is 'Besser spät als nie'.
Which situation is appropriate for this phrase?
When should you use 'Besser spät als nie'?
It is used to acknowledge a delay while showing commitment.
Match the phrase to its meaning.
Besser spät als nie -> ?
The literal and figurative meanings align here.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'Entschuldigung, ich bin spät.' B: '___'
This is the standard polite response to someone apologizing for being late.
🎉 Pontuação: /4
Recursos visuais
Banco de exercicios
4 exerciciosBesser spät als ___.
The fixed form of the proverb is 'Besser spät als nie'.
When should you use 'Besser spät als nie'?
It is used to acknowledge a delay while showing commitment.
Combine cada item a esquerda com seu par a direita:
The literal and figurative meanings align here.
A: 'Entschuldigung, ich bin spät.' B: '___'
This is the standard polite response to someone apologizing for being late.
🎉 Pontuação: /4
Perguntas frequentes
6 perguntasYes, it is acceptable if you are apologizing for a slight delay in a report.
No, it is actually polite because it acknowledges your lateness.
Yes, it is a fixed phrase.
Yes, it means the same thing.
It is also for starting things late in life.
Then it might not be enough; you might need a real apology.
Frases relacionadas
Was lange währt, wird endlich gut.
similarGood things take time.
Pünktlichkeit ist die Höflichkeit der Könige.
contrastPunctuality is the politeness of kings.
Lieber spät als nie.
synonymBetter late than never.
