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Region: General | Usage example: Slow and steady wins the race.

Slow and steady

Meaning

Consistent progress beats haste.

Usage

Used when advocating patience and persistence.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Aesop’s fable of the tortoise and the hare.

Used since ancient times to teach perseverance.

Related Idioms

Slow and steady wins the race

Consistent effort often beats spurts of speed.

Steady as she goes

Maintain current direction calmly.

Smooth sailing

Easy progress without obstacles.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.