lento pero seguro
/lento peɾo seɡuɾo/from spelling rules
The English phrase "slow but steady" is translated in Spanish as lento pero seguro.
This phrase is used to say that consistent, careful progress is more effective than rushing and making mistakes.
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, lento pero seguro means "slow but safe" or "slow but sure".
Is it said differently in some regions?
In some Latin American countries, people might say despacio pero firme.
How does it change in a sentence?
If the subject being described is a feminine noun, both adjectives must change to their feminine forms: lenta pero segura. If describing a group of people or objects, use the masculine plural form: lentos pero seguros.
How do you pronounce it?
/lento peɾo seɡuɾo/
Did you know?
Examples in context
- Estoy aprendiendo el idioma pasito a pasito. Avanzo lento pero seguro.I'm learning the language little step by little step. I'm making slow but steady progress.
- Lento pero seguro se llega lejos.Slow but steady gets you far.
- Es un proceso lento pero seguro.It is a slow but steady process.
- Prefiero avanzar lento pero seguro.I prefer to move forward slow but steady.
- En este trabajo, lo importante es ir lento pero seguro.In this job, the important thing is to go slow but steady.
Example conversation
María and Javier are discussing their progress on a complex DIY project.
- María¿Terminarás de armar la estantería hoy, Javier?Will you finish assembling the shelf today, Javier?
- JavierNo, voy lento pero seguro para no cometer errores.No, I am going slow but steady so as not to make mistakes.
- MaríaTienes razón, es mejor no apresurarse.You are right, it is better not to rush.
- JavierExacto, así el mueble quedará perfecto.Exactly, that way the furniture will turn out perfect.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries lento, pero, seguro, CC BY-SA 4.0.
