By giving themselves buffer time, they often arrive early - but never late.

为了给自己额外的时间，他们常常早到——但绝不迟到。

youdao

For a business appointment, it is considered proper to be five minutes early, but never late.

对于一个商务约会，提早五分钟到是很合适的，但一定不要迟到。

youdao

I had never ridden on a motor-cycle before. But it was too late to chicken out.

在那以前我从未骑过摩托车。但当时已来不及临阵脱逃。

《柯林斯英汉双解大词典》

In fact, he should have done it 18 months ago, but better late than never.

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Saint Louis made a couple of late runs but never got closer than 11 points.

NPR: Oregon Blows Past Saint Louis 74-57 In 3rd Round

But, better late than never I guess.

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