熟能生巧...

You can use this as a standalone sentence. It works great as a response to a compliment. If someone says your Chinese is amazing, just smile and say this. You can also use it to encourage a friend. It functions as both a noun and a verb phrase. It’s short, punchy, and very satisfying to say.

Use it when someone is struggling with a new task. It’s perfect for hobbies like cooking, sports, or gaming. Use it in the office when a junior colleague is slow. It shows you believe in their potential. It’s a great way to stay humble when you succeed. Even texting a friend who is frustrated with a new app works. It’s a universal green light for persistence.

Don't use it for things that require luck, like the lottery. It sounds silly if there is no skill involved. Avoid using it in tragic situations where practice doesn't apply. If someone is grieving, don't tell them 'practice makes perfect.' That’s a one-way ticket to an awkward silence. Also, don't use it to dismiss someone's genuine talent. It might imply they only worked hard but have no soul.

This phrase has deep roots in Chinese history. It is often associated with a famous story of an oil peddler. He could pour oil through the hole of a coin without spilling. When asked how, he simply said he was 'familiar' with it. It reflects the Confucian value of diligence and persistence. In China, hard work is often valued as much as natural talent.

You might hear people say 勤能补拙 (qín néng bǔ zhuō). This means 'diligence can make up for lack of talent.' It’s a bit more self-deprecating than 熟能生巧. Another one is 功到自然成 (gōng dào zì rán chéng). This means 'when the effort is put in, success follows naturally.' Both carry that same 'keep going' energy you want.