Rome wasn't built in a day

Cultural  

1. Valuable projects take time.

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Rome wasn't built in a day Idioms  

1. Important work takes time. This expression functions as an injunction or plea for someone to be patient. For example, You can't expect her to finish this project in the time allotted; Rome wasn't built in a day. This phrase was a French proverb in the late 1100s but was not recorded in English until 1545.

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Example Sentences

"They know Rome wasn't built in a day," Vance said in the key, blue-collar swing state of Pennsylvania on Tuesday.

From Barron's • Dec. 17, 2025

Rome wasn’t built in a day, so please look after yourself first.

From Washington Post • Nov. 30, 2021

In time LeBron and the Lakers will be fine and contending for titles but Rome wasn’t built in a day.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 15, 2019

Rome wasn't built in a day but I've figured out the formula of the way you're meant to do things.

From BBC • Apr. 25, 2013

"Rome wasn't built in a day," said the man who had been fishing next to Collins, and drawing in his line also, "we've a good many hours left yet."

From Hardscrabble; or, the fall of Chicago. a tale of Indian warfare by Richardson, John