Japanese meaning of 百里の道も九十九里をもって半ばとす
Reading:
ひゃくりのみちもくじゅうくりをもってなかばとす (Hyakuri no michi mo kujūkyūri wo motte nakaba to su)
English Translation:
The last mile is the hardest
Scene & Cultural Context
Cultural Context:
Emphasizes finishing tasks completely, a trait praised in Japanese work ethic.
「最後までやりきる」姿勢を評価する日本の職業倫理を反映。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
Uses classical structure “…をもって…とす” to express judgment.
Trap for English Speakers
Literal distance “ri” may confuse; it’s a metaphor for progress.