it never pays to (do something)

it never pays to (do something)

It is never a wise or advantageous idea to do the thing specified; doing this specific thing will never yield a positive effect. While it may be tempting, it never pays to exaggerate the list of accomplishments on your résumé. In my experience, it never pays to try to make short-term earnings by avoiding paying your taxes in full.

See also: never, pay

it always/never pays to do something

it is always/never wise to do something: It always pays to get good professional advice. ♢ It never pays to cheat in exams because you will always be discovered eventually.

See also: always, never, pay, something