🇺🇸 English Expressions : Johnny-Come-Lately

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Nov '25 (edited) • Miscellaneous Posting

Hey everyone! 👋

Today’s expression is “Johnny-come-lately.” 😄

👉 It’s used to describe someone who arrives late to something — a trend, a project, a situation — and usually acts like they’ve been there from the beginning.

It can sound a bit teasing or slightly negative, depending on the tone.

Origin:

This phrase dates back to the 1800s in the United States, originally appearing in print around the 1830s.

It was used to refer to newcomers who showed up after everyone else — often implying they’re inexperienced or trying to fit in with people who were there long before them.

It combines Johnny (a generic name) with come-lately, meaning someone who arrives late.

Examples:

He joined the project last week and already acts like a leader — a real Johnny-come-lately. 😅
Don’t be a Johnny-come-lately — jump in early next time!
When the band got famous, a bunch of Johnny-come-lately fans appeared. 🎸

Now it’s your turn! 💬

Write your own sentence using “Johnny-come-lately” in the comments 👇

English Expressions page in the Classroom: https://www.skool.com/lme/classroom/c7105c70?md=a0522a36e24d4286a880b2f958b8f1ea

WE LEARN FROM EACH OTHER! 🤝

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