always a bridesmaid, never a bride

== English == === Alternative forms === always the bridesmaid, never the bride === Etymology === Title of an English music-hall song (1917) by Charles Collins. Later used in an advertisement in the US for Listerine mouthwash (implying that the use of mouthwash could improve a woman's chances of marriage). === Phrase === always a bridesmaid, never a bride Said of a person who has potential that is never fulfilled. Said of a woman who has (presumedly) acted as bridesmaid at weddings but has not yet married. ==== Usage notes ==== (woman not yet married): An assumption of personal desire to marry is implied – as is, in general terms, the desirability of marriage. Use of the phrase may constitute or be construed as social pressure to marry. ==== See also ==== === References ===