English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Many hands make light work
Meaning
The idiom "many hands make light work" means that if multiple people or resources are put together to accomplish a task, it becomes much easier and quicker to complete than if only one person or resource were involved. It suggests that sharing the responsibility or workload can greatly reduce the burden on an individual and lead to more efficient results.
Usage
- "With so many volunteers helping out at the event, we were able to get everything done in record time."
- "Working together as a team made the project much easier than trying to do it alone."
- "Dividing up the work among the employees lightened their individual loads and improved productivity."
- "The group of friends decided to split the cost of the trip, making it more affordable for everyone involved."
- "Using a software tool to automate repetitive tasks saves time and reduces the workload on employees."
Roots and History
The idiom "many hands make light work" dates back to at least the 16th century. It was first recorded in English literature by Geoffrey Chaucer in his poem, "The Canterbury Tales." Over time, the phrase has become a common saying in many languages around the world and is used to convey the idea that collaboration and shared effort can lead to better results.
Synonyms in English
- Divide and conquer
- Many heads are better than one
- Two hands make light work
- Shared responsibility
- Teamwork
Synonyms in other languages
- La main de quelqu'un est douce (French) - This idiom means that someone's touch is soft and comforting, indicating a sense of ease and relaxation.
- 一口毒菇 (Japanese) - This phrase translates to "one mouthful of poisonous mushroom," and is used to describe a situation where one person is responsible for causing harm or failure, making the rest of the team or group suffer.
- צעראן בהות מתנה לשם עשות (Hebrew) - This idiom means that "the burden of suffering can be lightened through good deeds." It suggests that working together to help others can provide relief and fulfillment.
- ¡Vamos a bailar en la salsa! (Spanish) - This phrase translates to "Let's dance the salsa!" and is used to express excitement and enthusiasm for a social activity or event. It suggests that teamwork and shared effort can lead to fun and enjoyable experiences.
- שתים עדרים (Hebrew) - This idiom means "six degrees of separation." It suggests that through connections and collaboration, we are all connected in a web of relationships that span across different backgrounds and cultures.