When is it appropriate to say "better late than never"?

The phrase “better late than never” acknowledges that while timeliness is often important, the most crucial thing is that the task or goal was ultimately accomplished. This saying can be used to encourage someone who is feeling discouraged about a delayed outcome, or to provide a positive perspective on a situation where something was completed, even if it took longer than planned. It’s a way to focus on the fact that the desired result was achieved, rather than dwelling on the tardiness of the completion.