proverb · Words worth keeping
’Twixt the word and the deed there’s a long step.
’Twixt the word and the deed there’s a long step.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
An intention or announcement can be far from its fulfilment. Judge a commitment by the steps needed and the action taken, not by words alone.
Example
A group announces a recycling scheme, then assigns collection duties and secures storage rather than treating the announcement as the scheme’s completion.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The long step marks the gap between describing an action and carrying it out. A speaker may mean what they say while underestimating the effort, coordination or resources involved. The proverb encourages making that gap visible. Ask who will act, what the first step is and how progress will be recognised. It also cautions against congratulating oneself for a promise before doing the work. Words can initiate cooperation, but their value depends partly on whether the intended action follows.
When to use it
Use it to turn an expressed intention into concrete responsibilities.
Keep in mind
Planning and communication are part of action. Do not dismiss necessary preparation merely because the final result is not yet visible.
An interpretation of the words, not a claim about their earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional (French-language collection)
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
- Not established
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin. - Historical period
- Date unknown