go a long way: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘go a long way’ mean?
The idiom go a long way means to make significant progress or have a positive impact towards achieving a goal or building a successful outcome.
Idiom Explorer
An idiom *long time* means a significant period or duration. It is often used to emphasize the length of time that has passed or will pass.
The idiom "in the long term" refers to a period of time that is far into the future, usually indicating a result or consequence that will be realized after a significant amount of time or over an extended period. It emphasizes the importance of considering the potential outcomes or impacts over a longer timeframe rather than focusing solely on short-term effects.
The idiom "go all the way" means to fully commit or complete a task or action without hesitation or reservation.
The idiom "go all out" means to put in maximum effort or to do something with full dedication and enthusiasm.
The idiom "get off the mark" means to make a successful start or to take the first step towards achieving a goal or completing a task.
The idiom "gather way" means to gain momentum or make progress. It is often used to describe a person or group becoming more successful or making significant strides in their endeavors.
The idiom *from the word go* means from the very beginning or start of something.
Unlocking Potential
The idiom "go a long way" is a commonly used expression in the English language that represents progress and success over time. It is often related to other idioms that share similar meanings and connotations. One such related idiom is "come a long way," which also signifies significant progress or improvement.
"Come a long way" indicates how far someone or something has advanced or developed. Just as "go a long way" implies moving forward, "come a long way" emphasizes the distance someone or something has already traveled to reach a certain point. Together, these two idioms demonstrate the continuous journey towards achieving goals and making significant strides in personal growth.
Another related idiom is "by a long way," which emphasizes a clear distinction or difference between two states or situations. This expression suggests that one option or outcome surpasses the other by a considerable margin. In the context of "go a long way," this idiom highlights the notion that progress and success require going above and beyond the minimum effort or expectations.
Similarly, the idiom "go places" is also connected to "go a long way" and signifies future success or achievement. It implies that someone or something has the potential to accomplish great things and make a significant impact. "Go places" aligns with the idea that consistent effort and perseverance can lead to long-term success and the fulfillment of one's aspirations.
Lastly, the idiom "long time" relates to the extended period of time often associated with "go a long way" and its related idioms. "Long time" emphasizes the duration required to achieve progress or reach a specific goal. It underscores the idea that success and significant accomplishments don't happen overnight but are the result of consistent effort and commitment over time.
The idiom "go a long way" represents progress and success over time. Its origins may be uncertain, but its metaphorical use has solidified its place in the English language. When considering related idioms like "come a long way," "by a long way," "go places," and "long time," the overarching message is clear – achieving success and significant progress requires consistent effort, dedication, and perseverance. These idioms remind us that the journey towards our goals is as important as the destination and that the rewards of going a long way are worth the effort.
Example usage
1. Hard work and determination can go a long way towards achieving your goals.
2. Speaking a second language can go a long way in expanding your career opportunities.
3. A simple act of kindness can go a long way in making someone's day brighter.
More "Progress" idioms
