proverb · Words worth keeping
He that despiseth small things shall fall by little and little.
He that despiseth small things shall fall by little and little.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
Dismissing small matters can allow trouble to accumulate. The repeated little connects minor omissions with gradual decline, while leaving room to judge which details matter rather than demanding attention to every possible imperfection.
Example
A shared workshop starts recording small stock shortages so repeated missing items do not keep interrupting later sessions.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
Despiseth means treats as unworthy of attention. The proverb links that attitude towards small things with a series of small setbacks that can weaken a larger effort. In practical use, a modest check, correction or commitment may matter because its effects continue or connect with other work. The saying does not establish that every overlooked detail will bring failure. Priorities are necessary, and some imperfections have little consequence. A useful reading identifies the neglected issue, how its effects could accumulate and which response is proportionate. It favours attentive judgement over both habitual dismissal and an attempt to control every detail equally.
When to use it
Use it when recurring small omissions are creating a larger difficulty.
Keep in mind
Prioritise by actual effects; not every small imperfection deserves the same effort or predicts decline.
An interpretation of the words, not a claim about their earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
- Not established
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin. - Historical period
- Date unknown
- Culture
- English