1.
many a little makes a mickle, small things accumulate to become big
Even small amounts, when accumulated over time, can become something significant.
「塵も積もれば山となる」だから、毎日少しずつ貯金している。
Since 'little by little adds up,' I save a little every day.
塵も積もれば山となるというように、小さな努力が大きな成果につながる。
As the saying goes, small efforts lead to big results.
一円でも無駄にしない。塵も積もれば山となるからね。
I don't waste even one yen. After all, every little bit counts.
LITERAL MEANING: "Even dust, if it accumulates, becomes a mountain."
USAGE: Used to encourage small but consistent efforts, especially in saving money, studying, or working toward goals.
NUANCE: Can be used positively (encouraging consistent effort) or as a warning (small bad habits or expenses also add up).
SHORTER FORM: Sometimes abbreviated as 塵も積もれば or just referenced as 「塵つも」 in casual speech.
ENGLISH EQUIVALENTS:
- "Many a little makes a mickle"
- "Little by little adds up"
- "Every little bit counts"
- "Take care of the pennies and the pounds will take care of themselves"