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lentement mais sûrement

/lə̃t.mɑ̃ mɛ syʁ.mɑ̃/
phrase★Intermediate— slow and steady progress◆proverb
◆ What It Really Means
The idea that consistent, gradual effort leads to reliable success over time.
¶ Literal Meaning
Slowly but surely
Literal Breakdown
lentementslowly+maisbut+sûrementsurely
◇ Mental Image
A journey or process that progresses at a steady, unhurried pace, ensuring eventual success.
◈ When to Use
A manager reassures their team that their project will succeed if they continue working steadily, even if progress seems slow.
◉ Cultural Note
This proverb reflects the French cultural emphasis on patience, methodical work, and long-term thinking. It is similar to the English 'slow and steady wins the race.'
informal

A proverb emphasizing that steady, gradual progress is more reliable than hasty or reckless actions.

Il a construit son entreprise lentement mais sûrement.

He built his business slowly but surely.

La réforme se fera lentement mais sûrement.

The reform will happen slowly but surely.

💡

This phrase is often used to encourage perseverance and patience in long-term goals.

Synonyms

pas à paspeu à peuprogressivement

Antonyms

rapidementbrusquementà la hâte

Related Phrases

pas à pasphrase
step by step
peu à peuphrase
little by little

💡Pro Tip

Usage in Formal Contexts

This phrase is appropriate in both formal and informal settings, such as business, education, or personal advice.

⚡Gold Rule

Avoid Overuse

While useful, overusing this phrase can make your speech sound repetitive. Use it when emphasizing the value of patience and steady effort.

📖Word Origin

The phrase combines 'lentement' (slowly) and 'sûrement' (surely) to convey the idea of steady, reliable progress. It reflects the French cultural value of patience and methodical effort.

📝Usage Notes

This proverb is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to reassure or motivate someone working toward a long-term goal. It can also be used to describe a process that is progressing steadily, even if slowly.

Word Breakdown

lentement
slowly
adverb
+
mais
but
conjunction
+
sûrement
surely
adverb
Dictionnaire Français-Anglais

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