Famous last words Meaning in English
expression
Definition
Used humorously to point out that someone is too confident that something bad or ironic won’t happen, often right before it actually does. It does not mean literal last words before dying.
Usage & Nuances
Strongly ironic and humorous; used when someone tempts fate or is overconfident. Never literal. Common after predictions like "nothing can go wrong" or "I'll never forget." Most natural in informal, spoken English.
Example Sentences
"What could possibly go wrong?" — "Famous last words."
basic
He said, "This is easy," but famous last words—he failed the test.
basic
"I'll never drop my phone." Famous last words—she broke it the same day.
basic
"Don’t worry, the car just got serviced." "Famous last words—it broke down an hour later."
natural
He said, "I never get sick on vacation." Famous last words—he caught a cold the first day.
natural
"We’re definitely not getting lost." "Uh-huh, famous last words."
natural