“Margur er knár þó hann sé smár” – Small but strong

Meaning

“Margur er knár þó hann sé smár” is an Icelandic proverb meaning “small but strong.” It conveys the lesson that even someone or something small can achieve great results or have a significant impact. The proverb emphasizes that physical size or scale does not determine true strength or capability.

This is similar to the English expressions “Good things come in small packages” and “It’s not the size of the dog in the fight, but the size of the fight in the dog.”

Origin

This proverb comes from Iceland’s history and cultural background. Iceland is a small island nation with a relatively small population, yet it has maintained independence and thrived despite harsh natural conditions and external pressures. This expression reflects the idea that small nations or groups of people can still accomplish great things.

Historically, Iceland has resisted outside forces and preserved its culture and independence, reinforcing the belief that “small but strong” is a valued mindset in the country.

Usage

In modern times, this proverb is used to encourage people, regardless of their physical size or appearance, to believe they can succeed. It is often used in business, sports, and education when small teams or groups are able to achieve great results.

Conclusion

“Margur er knár þó hann sé smár” is an Icelandic proverb that teaches the lesson that even small individuals or entities can be strong and accomplish great things. This expression is commonly used in daily life, work, and sports to inspire people to aim for significant results from small efforts.