Never say never
Meaning
Do not assume something is impossible, because unexpected things can always happen.
Origin
The phrase "never say never" captures a defiant optimism, a refusal to completely rule out possibilities, no matter how remote. While the sentiment existed for centuries, its concise, punchy form gained widespread currency in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, becoming a staple of encouragement. Rudyard Kipling famously wrote "Never is a long word" in his 1897 novel, "Captains Courageous," hinting at the idea that no outcome is truly impossible over time. This cultural moment, filled with innovation and changing worldviews, helped solidify the idiom as a rallying cry against resignation, urging people to keep an open mind to the unexpected turns of fate.
Examples
- Even though they were down by three goals with only minutes left, the coach reminded his team to never say never.
- I thought I'd never learn to play the guitar, but after practicing for months, I realized you should never say never.