Here's a breakdown of its meaning:
* "One word does not succeed": This refers to an initial attempt or effort that fails. It could be a negotiation, a persuasive argument, a plan, or any other action where success depends on a single key element.
* "Ten thousand are no avail": This emphasizes that even with numerous further attempts, the outcome is unlikely to change. The initial failure has likely revealed a fundamental flaw or obstacle that can't be overcome simply by repetition.
The proverb highlights the importance of:
* Careful planning and preparation: If the initial attempt is flawed, subsequent attempts are unlikely to be successful.
* Identifying and addressing the root cause of failure: Repeating the same action without understanding the underlying issue is unlikely to yield different results.
* Flexibility and adaptability: Sometimes, it's necessary to adjust strategies or approaches based on initial feedback.
In essence, this proverb teaches that persistence is valuable, but it's crucial to be strategic and learn from mistakes rather than simply repeating them.