Learn English – What does this “too often” imply

grammar

We can't be reminded too often to do or say the right things.
We can't be reminded too often that relationships are valuable or that reconciliation is worth pursuing.

What does this "can't be reminded too often" combination mean?
Is this an idiom?

Best Answer

Let's say my daughter is 7, and she wants to play with her friend who lives across the street. On Saturday, before heading out the door, I remind her:

Be careful when you cross the street. Be sure to look both ways first.

On Sunday, she wants to play again. So I say:

Make sure you look both ways before you cross the street!

On Monday, after school, she asks me if she can go visit her friend. I answer:

Sure you can, as long as you remember to be careful when you cross the street.

On Tuesday, the conversation might go like this:

Can I go play with Zelda?
Sure you can. Just make sure you're careful when you cross the street.
Why do you always tell me that?
Because, crossing the street can be dangerous. You can't be reminded too often to be careful.

Another related expression is: I can't emphasize enough. I could have said:

Crossing the street can be dangerous. I can't emphasize enough: you need to be careful.'

Both expressions essentially mean: I realize I may have told you this before, but, this is so important, I'd feel better if you'd let me remind you again.

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