every little bit helps - Any tiny contribution to a cause, collection, or undertaking can be useful. This expression began its life, according to the Oxford Dictionary of Proverbs, as “Everything helps, quoth the wren when she pissed into the sea,” dated 1590. Another version, “Every little helps,” appeared in print in 1791 (in O’Keeffe’s play, Wild Oats, 5.3, “Here—it’s not much! But every little helps”). “Bit” appears to have been added in America in the early twentieth century. A.W. Upfield used it in The Man of Two Tribes (1956): “Every little bit helps.”
Related and Similar Terms
- Many a mickle makes a muckle: Small amounts add up to a large amount.
- Penny saved is a penny earned: Saving little amounts can contribute significantly over time.
- Rome wasn’t built in a day: Great achievements take time and small, consistent efforts.
- A drop in the ocean: Often used with negation, e.g., “Every effort counts; it’s not just a drop in the ocean.”
Synonyms
- Incremental progress
- Tiny steps matter
- Small efforts count
Antonyms
- Monumental effort
- All or nothing
- Herculean task
Quotes
“Success is the sum of small efforts - repeated day in and day out.” - Robert Collier
“Just take one step at a time, and those little steps could lead you to greatness.” - Anonymous
Proverbs
“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” - Lao Tzu
“Little drops of water make the mighty ocean.”
Suggestions for Literature, Songs, Poetry, and Movies
- Book: The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy - Explores how small choices can lead to significant results.
- Song: “One Brick at a Time” from Barnum – Celebrates incremental progress.
- Poem: “Bits and Pieces” by Anonymous - Emphasizes the power of little things in life.
- Movie: Groundhog Day - Each day represents a small effort towards personal growth.
Quizzes
Thank you for meandering through the world of idioms with me. Remember, in the grand scheme of things, every little bit truly helps. 🌱
Best wishes, Penelope Quill
