How to say "endeavor" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 努めるつとめるichidan verb, intransitive verbThe verb for 'endeavor to do': trying hard, in a deliberate and sustained way, to accomplish something. Use it where English has endeavor as a verb of ongoing effort.
- 努力どりょくnoun, suru verb, intransitive verbThe noun: effort, exertion, endeavor as a thing rather than an act. When English uses 'endeavor' as a noun for effort directed at a goal, this is the word.
- 心がけるこころがけるichidan verb, transitive verbIts core sense is to keep something in mind and aim to do it: it covers 'endeavor' only in the weak sense of making a point of something, not strenuous striving.
- 励むはげむgodan verb, intransitive verbTo strive: throwing oneself energetically into a task or pursuit and working at it hard. Fits 'endeavor' in the sense of devoted, vigorous effort toward an activity one is engaged in.
Use 「努める」 for the verb 'endeavor to do', 努力 for the noun 'endeavor' meaning effort, 「心がける」 when the sense is 'make a point of, keep in mind', and 「励む」 for striving hard at a pursuit.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
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