metreihinmetreillä

metreihinmetreillä is a Finnish phrase that translates literally to "to metres by metres." It is commonly used to describe a process or progress that is happening very gradually or in very small increments. The phrase evokes an image of measuring something out with a ruler, emphasizing the slow and deliberate nature of the development.

The idiom is often employed in situations where significant change is expected but is not yet readily apparent. For example, one might say that a project is progressing "metreihinmetreillä" if only minor advancements are being made day by day. It can also be used to describe the slow improvement of a skill or the gradual healing of an injury. The tone of the phrase can range from patient observation to mild frustration, depending on the context.

In essence, "metreihinmetreillä" highlights the tediousness of slow progress. It suggests that while movement is occurring, it is so incremental that it requires careful, ongoing measurement to even notice. The phrase is a vivid linguistic tool for expressing the concept of slow and steady advancement, often in contrast to more rapid or dramatic changes.