it isn't over till the fat lady sings
it isn't over till/until the fat lady sings
The final outcome cannot be assumed or determined until a given situation, event, etc., is completely finished. The phrase refers to the stereotypically stout female sopranos of the opera, particularly the Valkyrie Brünnehilde, whose aria concludes Richard Wagner's opera cycle Der Ring des Nibelungen. It is often used in reference to organized competitions, such as sporting events, political elections, etc. A: "We're down by six points with only two minutes remaining. There's no way we can win now!" B: "Hey, it isn't over till the fat lady sings!" It's not looking likely that the senator will be elected to another term, but it isn't over until the fat lady sings.
See also: fat, lady, over, sing, till, until
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
it isn't over till the fat lady sings
there is still time for a situation to change.This phrase comes from the saying the opera isn't over till the fat lady sings , which originated in the 1970s in the USA; it is doubtful whether any particular operatic production or prima donna was ever intended.
See also: fat, lady, over, sing, till
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
- it ain't over till/until the fat lady sings
- it ain't/it's not over till the fat lady sings
- it isn't over till/until the fat lady sings
- it isn't over until the fat lady sings
- it's not over till/until the fat lady sings
- put balls on
- put balls on (something)
- put balls on something
- boys will be boys
- bushel