On the never-never

usgb
adverb

Buying something by paying small amounts of money at a time.

She bought the furniture on the never-never, making monthly payments.
Visual representation of "on the never-never" - Buying something by paying small amounts of money at a time

Often appears as...

  • buying on the never-never
  • living on the never-never

Usage tips

Informal

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "on the never-never"
LampPro Tip 1/3

UK Common Use

The phrase is mainly used in the UK, so it's most recognized and understood there.

Illustration for UK Common Use
John decided to buy his new TV on the never-never, as it's quite common in the UK.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Colloquial Term

It's casual language, used in informal situations, not in formal finance documents.

Illustration for Colloquial Term
I'm a bit short on cash, so I might get these shoes on the never-never.
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Installment Payments

It refers to installment payments, where you pay a small amount regularly.

Illustration for Installment Payments
They got their new couch on the never-never and will pay a bit each month.
Visual representation of the word "On the never-never"

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