proverb · Words worth keeping
What you are doing do thoroughly. (Age quod agis.)
What you are doing do thoroughly. (Age quod agis.)
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
Give the task you have undertaken sufficient attention and care. Thoroughness means carrying out its purpose well rather than merely appearing occupied.
Example
A volunteer checks that an event notice includes the venue, date and contact details before sending it, rather than only polishing its appearance.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The Latin phrase printed with the saying reinforces attention to the action in hand. A useful reading asks whether the task has been understood, the necessary steps completed and the result checked against its purpose. This does not require doing every possible detail or refusing interruptions. Thorough work may include recognising limits, seeking help and deciding what is sufficient. The emphasis is on dependable completion of an actual responsibility rather than scattering effort across many unfinished gestures or turning an ordinary task into endless perfectionism.
When to use it
Use it to bring attention back to completing a defined task properly.
Keep in mind
Thoroughness should be proportionate. Perfectionism, fatigue and unreasonable demands can prevent useful completion.
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