Japanese word

努める

Pronunciation

Romajitsutomeru

Meaning

  • verbmake an effort

Example

問題を解決するように努めます。mon dai o kai ketsu su ru yō ni tsuto me ma su

I will make an effort to solve the problem.

Illustration for 努める (make an effort)

More examples

安全な環境づくりに努めます。an zen na kan kyō zu ku ri ni tsuto me ma su

We will make an effort to create a safe environment.

Core concept

Describes actively directing one's effort toward a goal, rather than leaving the result to chance.

Common phrases

  • 改善に努めるkai zen ni tsuto me ru

    work to improve

  • 解決に努めるkai ketsu ni tsuto me ru

    work toward a solution

  • 品質向上に努めるhin shitsu kō jō ni tsuto me ru

    strive to improve quality

Similar words

努力するdoryokusuru: To work actively toward a goal by using one's time and energy.
心掛けるkokorogakeru: To keep a desired action or attitude in mind and try to follow it.
尽力するjinryokusuru: To work with dedication to support a person, group, or cause.
励むhagemu: To devote oneself steadily to a study, activity, or task.

Definition in Japanese

ある目的を実現するために力を尽くす。a ru moku teki o jitsu gen su ru ta me ni chikara o tsu ku su

Word origin

The native verb 努める (tsutomeru) comes from the same older verb family as 努む (tsutomu, "to exert oneself"), and 努 (do, "exert oneself") is used in its spelling for that meaning.

Usage tips

  • The polite form 努めます (tsutomemasu) is common in formal speech and writing when someone states an intention to work toward an improvement or goal.

Opposites

Word lists with this word