The day is short and work lasts a long time.
The day is short and work lasts a long time.
Meaning in plain English
A short day beside long-lasting work pictures tasks exceeding the time presently available. It draws attention to the scale of an undertaking.
Example
A worker identifies what can reasonably be completed today and discusses the remaining tasks with others.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The contrast may describe both limited hours and the felt length of work. The supplied gloss focuses on work making time feel short; that is a possible emphasis rather than a measured psychological effect. A useful application reviews priorities and support without requiring endless labour.
When to use it
Use it to discuss workload and limited available time.
Keep in mind
No universal time perception or obligation to keep working without rest is established.
Edsverb editorial interpretation · agent reviewed · 2026-10-05. This explains the saying; it does not establish its historical origin.
- Source
- Contributor-provided proverb reference
Supplied reference A; unit 842; PDF page 119
Reuse and collection notes ↗ - Attribution confidence
- traditional · supplied collection
Preserved as printed; independently unverified. - Historical coordinate
- Undated
No reliable date supplied by the collection. - Rights & edition
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Translations and rights may differ elsewhere.
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