Japanese word

図る

Pronunciation

Romajihakaru

Meaning

  • verbtry

Example

話し合いで問題の解決を図ります。hana shi a i de mon dai no kai ketsu o haka ri ma su

We will try to solve the problem through discussion.

Illustration for 図る (try)

More examples

市は事故の再発防止を図ります。shi wa ji ko no sai hatsu bō shi o haka ri ma su

The city will try to prevent similar accidents from happening again.

Core concept

Means taking purposeful steps to make a desired outcome happen, often with the sense of seeking or arranging it.

Common phrases

  • 解決を図るkai ketsu o haka ru

    seek a solution

  • 実現を図るjitsu gen o haka ru

    try to make something a reality

  • 効率化を図るkō ritsu ka o haka ru

    seek greater efficiency

Similar words

目指すmezasu: To work toward a particular goal or desired result.
試みるkokoromiru: To attempt an action or method in order to achieve a result.
努めるtsutomeru: To make a sustained effort to achieve a goal or improve a situation.

Definition in Japanese

目的を実現するために、手段を考えて取り組む。moku teki o jitsu gen su ru ta me ni shu dan o kanga e te to ri ku mu

Word origin

図る (hakaru, "to try") is the native Japanese verb はかる (hakaru, "to aim at or devise") written with 図 (zu, "plan or diagram") when it has this goal-directed sense.

Usage tips

  • English try can describe testing something or making a simple attempt, but 図る (hakaru) usually focuses on deliberately seeking a result, especially in expressions used for solutions or prevention.

Other meanings

  • deviseverb
  • planverb

Opposites

  • 断念するdannensuruabandonverb

Word lists with this word