Wiktionary
almost doesn't count
prov. near success (or correctness) is not deemed success (or correctness).
Wikipedia
Almost Doesn't Count
"Almost Doesn't Count" is an R&B ballad written by Shelly Peiken and Guy Roche for Brandy's second studio album, Never Say Never (1998). It also was produced by Roche and released as the album's fourth single during the second quarter of 1999 (see 1999 in music). The ballad reached the top 20 in New Zealand, the UK, and on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 on June 8, 1999 (after reaching the Top 40 on April 27). Brandy performed the song in the 1999 film Double Platinum, starring Diana Ross and herself.