How to say "endeavour" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 努力どりょくnoun, suru verb, intransitive verbThe noun sense of 'endeavour': effort or exertion itself, usually sustained toward a goal. Choose it when English 'endeavour' could be replaced by 'effort' without changing the meaning.
- 努めるつとめるichidan verb, intransitive verbThe verb 'to endeavour to do': striving to accomplish or maintain something through steady, conscious effort. Use it when 'endeavour' takes the form 'endeavour to do'.
- 尽力じんりょくnoun, suru verb, intransitive verbA noun for effort expended on a task or cause, shading into assistance: doing what one can for someone or something. Fits 'endeavour' when the effort is devoted on behalf of others.
- 心がけるこころがけるichidan verb, transitive verbFor 'endeavour' meaning to aim to do something or make a point of it: the emphasis is on keeping the intention in mind, not on strenuous exertion. Suits resolutions and habitual aims.
- 励むはげむgodan verb, intransitive verbThe verb for devoting oneself eagerly to an activity: striving and working hard at it. Use it when 'endeavour' implies energetic, dedicated engagement with the task itself.
Use 努力 for the noun sense of effort, 「努める」 for endeavouring to do something, 尽力 for effort devoted to others or a cause, 「心がける」 for making a point of doing something, and 「励む」 for working hard at an activity.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
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