tit3 cyu5 mo4 sing4 zam1鐵杵磨成針铁杵磨成针

Jyutpingtit3 cyu5 mo4 sing4 zam1

Yaletit chyúh mòh sìhng jām

Definition

Perseverance will prevail; constant effort brings success.

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How it's used

This idiom is a classic proverb used to encourage someone who is facing a difficult or long-term task. It emphasizes that even the most daunting goals can be achieved through consistent, patient effort. While it sounds formal due to its literary roots, it is frequently used in casual advice to boost morale.

Examples

zi2只jiu3要hang2肯nou5努lik6力，tit3鐵cyu5杵mo4磨sing4成zam1針，nei5你jat1一ding6定dak1得㗎。

As long as you are willing to work hard, perseverance will prevail, you will definitely succeed.

hok6學jyu5語jin4言zeoi3最gan2緊jiu3要gin1堅ci4持，tit3鐵cyu5杵mo4磨sing4成zam1針maa3嘛。

The most important thing in learning a language is persistence; after all, perseverance will prevail.

Common phrases

zi2只jiu3要hang2肯nou5努lik6力，tit3鐵cyu5杵mo4磨sing4成zam1針

If you are willing to work hard, perseverance will prevail.

Common mistake

Do not use this to describe quick or easy tasks, as the imagery of grinding an iron rod into a needle implies a very slow and arduous process. It is reserved for long-term goals like learning a skill or overcoming a major obstacle.