Idiom idiom
it is always darkest before the dawn
Meaning
Things are going to get better
Examples
“Don't give up now, because it is always darkest before the dawn.”
“Even though you lost your job today, remember that it is always darkest before the dawn and a better opportunity might be coming.”
“The company faced its worst financial crisis last winter, yet the manager reminded the staff that it is always darkest before the dawn just before their most successful season began.”
Origin
first recorded 17th c.
first recorded 17th c.
First recorded in Thomas Fuller's A Pisgah-Sight of Palestine (1650): 'It is always darkest just before the Day dawneth.'
Last updated June 7, 2026