Rome wasn't built in a day

Cultural  

1. Valuable projects take time.

---

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.

---

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

Rome wasn't built in a day

"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

The Harbaugh process needs to be trusted and Rome wasn’t built in a day.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 18, 2025

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

From Washington Post ● Nov. 30, 2021

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

"Now, Miss Robin, Rome wasn't built in a day, as I ever heard of," protested Harkness, a smudge over his nose and two long nails between his teeth.

From Red-Robin by Richards, Harriet Roosevelt