famous last words

Definitions

1. A notable final utterance before death, especially one made by a celebrity or historical figure.
   literally, plural, plural-normally
2. A statement which is overly optimistic, results from overconfidence, or lacks realistic foresight.
   figuratively, plural, plural-normally

Equivalents

Examples

“Lawrence died defending his vessel and his famous last⟳ words, "Don't give⟳ up the ship," have⟳ been familiar to every schoolboy.”

“When Arria's husband was hesitating to kill⟳ himself, she stabbed herself with his dagger, to demonstrate⟳ to him how to accomplish a noble suicide. Her famous last⟳ words—Paete, non dolet ["Paetus, it does not hurt⟳!"].”

“Says one Sperry product executive: "As a manager, there is almost nothing you can do to get⟳ fired here." Considering the new circumstances, those could be famous last⟳ words.”

“"But Nick—I'm never getting married again. I'm serious about that.""Famous last⟳ words."”

“"Lindsey and Tess are both armed. And Stella and Robert are here. We're ridiculously safe." "Those sound⟳ like⟳ such famous last⟳ words," Dave said.”

CEFR level