now-or-never UK /ˌnaʊəˈnɛvə/US /ˌnaʊəɹˈnɛvəɹ/adjective 1now or never adverb 1 adjective1 •Of a need for a decision, an opportunity, etc.: arising at the present time and requiring action to be taken immediately, or not at all.Margaret knew what it was to expect her visitors to return ‘in one moment,’ and with a ‘now-or-never’ feeling she began, ‘Ethel dear, wait,’ but Ethel was too impetuous to attend. — 1856 now or never adverb1 •At this sole opportunity or time, or not at all.[A]s you tender the welfare of your country, I entreat you not to forget or delay so public-spirited a work. Now or never is the time. — 1709
