“Little strokes fell great oaks”: meaning, origin and examples
What it means
The phrase Little strokes fell great oaks means that consistent, small efforts can achieve significant results over time. It suggests that persistence and perseverance, even in seemingly minor actions, can lead to the accomplishment of large and difficult tasks.
Tone Motivational and encouraging
Where it comes from
The phrase is attributed to Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. It appears in Poor Richard’s Almanack, a publication Franklin produced annually.
Examples
- Even though studying a little each day seems trivial, remember that little strokes fell great oaks; you’ll master the subject eventually.
- By consistently saving small amounts, she was able to afford her dream vacation—little strokes fell great oaks.
- He reminded his team that little strokes fell great oaks and encouraged them to keep making steady progress.
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