Translation guide
This English proverb means that those who act promptly or arrive first will have an advantage. In Japanese, there are several equivalent proverbs and expressions that convey a similar idea, ranging from direct translations to culturally specific sayings.
the early bird gets the worm
Most common equivalent proverb
Expressing the general idea that being early or proactive leads to benefits.
A common Japanese proverb literally meaning 'early rising brings a three-mon profit.' It emphasizes the small but tangible benefits of waking up early. This is the closest natural equivalent to 'the early bird gets the worm.'
They say the early bird gets the worm, so let's wake up early tomorrow.
A classical proverb meaning 'If you take the initiative, you can control others.' It focuses on gaining an advantage by acting before others, similar to the competitive aspect of the English proverb.
In business, the early bird gets the worm. Let's act early.
Literally 'first come, first served' or 'the early one wins.' This is a very common, casual phrase used in everyday situations like sales or limited offers. It captures the competitive, opportunistic side of the proverb.
This sale is first come, first served. (The early bird gets the worm.)
Means 'Strike while the iron is hot' or 'Do good things quickly.' It encourages prompt action for positive outcomes, overlapping with the idea of not delaying beneficial actions.
If you've come up with a good idea, the early bird gets the worm.
早起きは三文の徳 focuses on the virtue of waking up early and the small rewards it brings. 早い者勝ち is about gaining an advantage by being quicker than others, often in competitive or limited-resource situations. Use the former for general advice about early rising, and the latter for situations like sales or opportunities.
Because the early bird gets the worm, I go jogging every morning.
Limited items are first come, first served, so I lined up before the store opened.
Remember, the early bird gets the worm, so start your day early.
In this industry, the early bird gets the worm; you have to be proactive.