ProverbChallengeInternational origin2001

It always seems impossible until it's done

Meaning: Before any achievement, it appears beyond reach; only completion reveals it was always possible.

Origin: Widely credited to Nelson Mandela, but the Nelson Mandela Foundation has no record of him saying it, and it has not been found in his speeches or books. The earliest known link to Mandela is a 2001 Australian newspaper article about a solar-powered boat that displayed the quote.

Explore another collection: False Friends

Words that look familiar in another language but mean something else entirely.

  • Bekommen Actually means 'to receive' or 'to get'. To become is werden.
  • Déception Actually means 'disappointment'. For deception (a trick), say tromperie.
  • Disgusto Actually means 'displeasure', 'upset', or 'trouble'. For disgust (revulsion), say asco.

Browse all false friends →

Keep exploring

Explore all proverbs →