He who laughs last laughs longest

usgb
proverb

The person who has the last successful move in a situation enjoys success more than people who succeed against him earlier.

John might have won the debate in the classroom, but when I received the highest grades, I realized that he who laughs last laughs longest.
Visual representation of "he who laughs last laughs longest" - The person who has the last successful move in a situation enjoys success more than people who succeed against him earlier.

Often appears as...

  • success
  • victory

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "he who laughs last laughs longest"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Ultimate Win

The phrase often implies that the ultimate winner is most satisfied, regardless of previous setbacks.

Illustration for Ultimate Win
She came in first at the end of the marathon, proving he who laughs last laughs longest.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Revenge Context

It's used when someone has the final and definitive success after being outperformed or mocked initially.

Illustration for Revenge Context
After being teased for his prototype, when his invention succeeded, he knew he who laughs last laughs longest.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Patient Triumph

It suggests that being patient and persistent can lead to the greatest success which is more memorable.

Illustration for Patient Triumph
They celebrated too early, but our team won in overtime; he who laughs last laughs longest.
Visual representation of the word "He who laughs last laughs longest"

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