en English es español fr française it italiano de deutsche ja 日本語 pl polski cs česky sv svenska tr Türkçe nl Nederlands

Explaining "The longest journey starts with a single step"

Reviewed and edited by Lloyd Cooper 15/10/2024, 01:42
English.me team member

What does it mean?

The longest journey starts with a single step

This phrase means that no matter how big or daunting a task or goal may seem, it is achieved by starting with small steps and gradually progressing towards completion.

Tone

Encouraging

Origin

The phrase is a paraphrase of a quote attributed to the Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu from the Tao Te Ching, which says, "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step."

Examples of usage

  • Even though writing a novel seems daunting, remember that the longest journey starts with a single step; just begin with one sentence.
  • She was overwhelmed by the prospect of running a marathon, but she kept reminding herself that the longest journey starts with a single step.

Recommended posts in Phrases

Mighty oaks from little acorns grow

Mighty oaks from little acorns grow

This phrase means that great things or people often come ... Learn more →

Charity begins at home

Charity begins at home

The phrase means that one should take care of and ... Learn more →

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step

The phrase means that great achievements or long endeavors start ... Learn more →

The leopard does not change its spots

The leopard does not change its spots

The phrase means that a person cannot change their intrinsic ... Learn more →