Translation guide
This proverb emphasizes that consistent, persistent effort leads to success, even if progress seems slow. Japanese has several equivalent proverbs and expressions, often using metaphors of perseverance.
To express the idea that steady, continuous effort is more effective than rushing or relying on quick bursts of speed.
Literally 'if you are in a hurry, take the long way around.' This is the closest natural Japanese proverb, meaning that taking a safe, steady route is ultimately faster than rushing and risking failure.
急がば回れというように、毎日少しずつ勉強するのが結局は早く上達する。
As the saying goes, 'slow but steady wins the race,' studying a little every day will actually lead to faster improvement.
Literally 'continuation is power.' Emphasizes that persistence itself becomes a strength. Commonly used in educational and self-improvement contexts.
毎日10分でも練習を続ければ、継続は力なりで必ず上達する。
If you keep practicing even just 10 minutes a day, persistence pays off and you will definitely improve.
Literally 'three years on a stone.' Means that if you persevere even in an uncomfortable situation, eventually things will change for the better. Often used to encourage patience.
石の上にも三年というから、今はつらくても続けていればきっと報われる。
They say perseverance pays off, so even if it's tough now, if you keep at it, it will surely be rewarded.
Literally 'a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.' Focuses on the importance of starting and taking consistent small steps. More about the value of gradual progress than the contrast with speed.
千里の道も一歩からだから、まずは簡単な単語から覚えよう。
A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, so let's start by learning simple vocabulary.
急がば回れ emphasizes that a seemingly slower approach can be faster overall, while 継続は力なり highlights that the act of continuing itself builds strength. Use the former when advising against rushing, and the latter when encouraging persistence.
These proverbs are well-known and can be used in both casual and formal settings. 急がば回れ is particularly common in everyday advice. You can soften them with phrases like ～というように (as the saying goes) or ～という言葉がある (there is a saying).
彼は継続は力なりと信じて成功した。
He succeeded because he believed that slow but steady wins the race.
Emphasizing persistence over time.