Translation guide
This English phrase describes making gradual, consistent progress. In Japanese, it is often expressed through adverbs, idiomatic phrases, or set expressions that emphasize steady, incremental advancement.
To describe an action or process that advances little by little but without stopping, eventually leading to completion or success.
He is improving his Japanese slowly but steadily.
My savings are growing slowly but steadily.
Literally 'even if slowly, steadily'. Emphasizes that the pace may be slow, but the progress is reliable. Often used in motivational contexts.
If you proceed slowly but steadily, you'll eventually reach your goal.
An adverb meaning 'steadily' or 'in a down-to-earth manner'. Implies persistent, unglamorous effort over time. Often used for work or study.
If you keep working steadily, results will follow.
Literally 'step by step'. Conveys gradual progress, often with a sense of determination. Can be used with verbs like 進む (advance) or 前進する (move forward).
I'm moving toward my goal step by step.
To use a well-known saying that encapsulates the idea of 'slowly but steadily', often for encouragement or reflection.
A proverb meaning 'more haste, less speed' or 'slow and steady wins the race'. Literally 'if you are in a hurry, take a detour'. Advises that taking a slower but surer path can be more effective.
Slow and steady wins the race; it's better to learn thoroughly from the basics.
A proverb meaning 'perseverance is power' or 'continuing is strength'. Emphasizes that steady, ongoing effort leads to success. Often used to encourage long-term commitment.
A proverb meaning 'a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step'. Encourages starting small and progressing steadily. More literary or reflective.
Both mean 'slowly but steadily', but 少しずつ着実に is a neutral description of gradual progress, while ゆっくりでも着実に explicitly acknowledges the slow pace and emphasizes that it's acceptable. Use the latter when you want to reassure someone that slow progress is fine.
Directly translating 'slowly but steadily' as 遅くても着実に (おそくてもちゃくじつに) is understandable but less natural. The phrase ゆっくりでも着実に is preferred because ゆっくり implies a relaxed, deliberate pace rather than just slowness.
It's important to practice a little every day. Perseverance is power.
A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Let's start with what we can do.