never say never
Meaning
Don’t claim something will definitely never happen; circumstances can change.
Origin
A rhetorical warning against absolute statements; popularized in modern English by titles and slogans, notably the 1983 James Bond film “Never Say Never Again,” reinforcing the phrase in pop culture.
Notes
Used as advice or a caution against making absolute claims about the future. Often said lightly in conversation; it implies openness to changing circumstances.
Examples
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I didn’t think I’d ever move abroad, but never say never.
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You might not want kids now, but never say never.
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It feels impossible to get this deal done, yet never say never.
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He swore he’d never run a marathon—never say never.
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I’m not planning to go back to school, but never say never.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Fixed phrase; typically used as a standalone sentence or clause. Little variation (rarely “don’t say never”). Often follows someone’s absolute statement: “You said you’d never…, but never say never.”
Synonyms
- don’t rule it out
- anything can happen
- you never know
- never say die
Antonyms
- always say never
- rule it out completely