What does ‘many hands make light work’ mean?
To “many hands make light work” means to large groups can finish tasks quickly. Brewer's records this as a classic English proverb, in print by the 14th century.
Origin
- Brewer's records this as a classic English proverb, in print by the 14th century.
How to use it
- Common encouragement to teamwork.
- Example: Grab a broom — many hands make light work.
Source:
Last verified: 2026-07-18
- Definitions and origins are drawn from public-domain reference works, primarily Brewer's Dictionary of Phrase and Fable (1898), with modern usage notes clearly marked.