every dog has its day
Meaning
Everyone will have a moment of success, luck, or recognition eventually, even if they are overlooked now.
Origin
A long-standing English proverb meaning even the lowly get a chance. Recorded in John Heywood’s 1546 proverb collection; echoed in Shakespeare’s Hamlet (“…dog will have his day”).
Notes
Encouraging, proverb-like tone: even the overlooked will get a chance. Often used to comfort or warn not to underestimate someone; can sound mildly ironic if said after a small win.
Examples
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Don’t count her out—every dog has its day, and hers is coming.
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He was mocked for years, but every dog has its day; his startup just got funded.
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I know you’re frustrated, but keep at it—every dog has its day.
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They said I’d never win, but every dog has its day, and I proved them wrong.
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The team has been losing all season, yet every dog has its day; they might upset the champions.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Fairly fixed proverb: “every dog has its day” (often as a full sentence). Variants include “every dog will have its day.” Keep “its” (not “their”) in the traditional form.
Synonyms
- everyone gets their chance
- your turn will come
- have your day in the sun
- everyone has their moment
Antonyms
- be out of luck
- have no chance
- never get a break