Meaning
This proverb means that even a small failure or shortfall is still a failure, just like a big one. Whether you miss a target by an inch or a mile, the result is the same—you didn’t succeed. It reminds us that close attempts don’t count unless the goal is actually achieved. There’s no reward for almost winning. It teaches the importance of precision, preparation, and finishing what you start.
Understanding the Idea of the Proverb
This idea warns us against comforting ourselves with the thought of “almost.” In reality, missing a goal, no matter how narrowly, still means falling short. In competitions, deadlines, exams, or life decisions—“nearly there” is often no better than “nowhere near.” The lesson is clear: don’t be satisfied with getting close. Give your full effort and make sure you actually cross the finish line. Results matter.
Beautiful Story to Relate the Proverb
The Hare and the Mango Tree
In a sunlit forest near the riverbank lived a fast, young hare named Raaju. One summer, the forest animals heard about a challenge announced by the lion king:
“Whoever brings me the ripest mango from the hilltop tree before sunset will receive a basket of golden berries!”
Raaju, confident and swift, dashed off before anyone else.
He reached the hilltop tree first, picked the juiciest mango, and ran back. On the way, he saw a patch of tasty clover. “One quick snack won’t hurt,” he thought.
Then he chased butterflies, jumped over rocks, and even took a short nap, thinking, “I’m still ahead of everyone.”
But when he finally neared the lion’s den, he saw a slow old tortoise named Motak handing over a mango to the lion.
“Impossible!” Raaju gasped. “I reached the tree first!”
The lion said, “But he reached me first.”
Raaju bowed his head.
The wise owl nearby said,
“Raaju, remember—a miss is as good as a mile. No one wins by being ‘almost’ on time.”
Moral:
Coming close is still missing the mark. Only complete efforts bring true results.