Slow and Steady Wins The Race Meaning, Examples, Usage

The meaning of the idiom slow and steady wins the race is that the best results come from consistent and effective efforts.

This proverb reminds one of the ancient Greek story of the tortoise and the hare from Aesop’s Fables, which is well known to all Westerners. A tortoise is similar to a turtle, however, it lives on land rather than in water. A hare is a type of rabbit. Tortoises are notoriously slow, while rabbits are notoriously swift.

The tortoise and the hare are racing in the story. Because the tortoise is so far behind, the hare gets overconfident and figures he may take a nap before finishing the race. This is analogous to someone being overconfident and ceasing to work hard. While the hare is sleeping, the turtle keeps going and wins the race.

As a result, this story—and the phrase—reminds us that it is preferable to work steadily—moderately—every day rather than very hard for brief periods of time.

Also Read: Useful Idioms with Examples, Sentences and Meanings

Usage with Examples

The phrase can be applied to a wide range of situations. One might use the expression when seeking to reason with a friend or family member who they believe is on the verge of failing. Or, it might be used to explain how one is thinking about and acting on their own goals.

Mentioned below are the examples of the idiom slow and steady wins the race:

• Keep working on your goals, no matter what slow and steady wins the race.
• Slow and steady wins the race though.
• Like the tortoise and the hare, slow and steady wins the race.

Also Read: Get your act together meaning

Synonyms and Similar Phrases to Slow and Steady Wins the Race

Mentioned below are the synonyms of slow and steady wins the race:

• Haste makes waste
• Slowly but surely
• Hasty climbers have sudden falls
• More haste, less speed
• Look before you leap

Slow and Steady Wins the Race Meaning Quiz

“I know you think that you are better than everyone else because of your natural talent and quick mind, but don’t forget that slow and steady wins the race.” What is the meaning of slow and steady wins the race here?

• Run fast to win
• Take your time and be consistent in your efforts, you will succeed
• Think before you speak

Also Read: Idioms for IELTS

This was all about the idiom slow and steady wins the race meaning and examples. Hope you understood the concept where it’s used. For more such blogs, follow Leverage Edu.