never say never

Idioms  

1. Nothing is impossible, anything can happen, as in Mary said Tom would never call her again, but I told her, “Never say never.” This expression was first recorded in Charles Dickens's Pickwick Papers (1837).

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Example Sentences

Still, some experts say you can never say never when it comes to a fuel surcharge should oil costs remain high.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 1, 2026

While the old saying "never say never" is a popular one, Cena has repeatedly said he will be "100% done" - and has received rousing receptions around the world for his final appearances.

From BBC • Dec. 12, 2025

He denied that he should have asked Bayly to step down following October's winery incident, and said "never say never" when asked if there was a way back for the 63-year-old into another cabinet position.

From BBC • Feb. 24, 2025

I just don’t see myself spending years trying to raise the financing for a new project, which requires a commitment of energy I’d rather spend elsewhere — but I never say never!

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 17, 2024

"Say never, say never, say never," gurgled Kezia, while they lay there laughing in each other's arms.

From The Garden Party and Other Stories by Mansfield, Katherine