Japanese meaning of 塵も積もれば山となる
Reading:
ちりもつもればやまとなる (Chiri mo tsumoreba yama to naru)
English Translation:
Many a little makes a mickle / Little by little, a little becomes a lot
Meaning & Cultural Context
Meaning:
Even the smallest actions or efforts, when continued over time, can result in significant outcomes. This proverb encourages consistency and reminds us that progress is often made step by step, not all at once.
Cultural Context:
Japanese culture values perseverance and gradual progress. This saying illustrates the power of steady accumulation.
どんなに小さな努力や行動でも、積み重ねることで最終的には大きな成果につながるという考え方。コツコツと続けることの大切さを説いています。
日本文化ではコツコツと積み重ねることが重要とされ、このことわざはその価値観を象徴しています。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
Uses the conditional form "～ば" to show cause and effect — "If dust piles up, it becomes a mountain."
Trap for English Speakers
“Dust” might sound like something negative, but in this context it symbolizes small positive efforts, not literal dirt.
Example
Basic Example
少しずつでも貯金すれば、塵も積もれば山となる。
If you save a little at a time, many a little makes a mickle.
Applied Example
「また100円貯金か？」「塵も積もれば山となるって言うだろ。」
Another hundred yen in the jar? "Many a little makes a mickle, right?"