Japanese meaning of 継続は力なり

Reading:
けいぞくはちからなり (Keizoku wa chikara nari)

English Translation:

Practice makes perfect / Perseverance is power

Meaning & Cultural Context

Meaning:


Consistent effort over time builds true strength and ability. This proverb teaches that talent alone is not enough—it's perseverance and daily discipline that create lasting results and personal growth.

Cultural Context:


Japanese culture strongly values discipline, regularity, and persistence.

Grammar & Learning Points

Grammar Point

Uses old-style copula "なり" to emphasize a timeless truth.

Trap for English Speakers

It’s more than just practice; it’s about consistent long-term effort.

Example

Basic Example

毎日5分の読書でも、継続は力なりだと実感する。

Even five minutes of reading daily can make a big difference — perseverance is power.


Applied Example

小さな筋トレを欠かさなかった彼は、夏の大会で体格が別人のようになっていた。継続は力なり。

The one who never skipped small workouts looked like a different person at the summer tournament — perseverance is power.