Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Effort" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "effort", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
尽力
じんりょく (jinryoku)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
取り組み
とりくみ (torikumi)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "effort" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 尽力 and 取り組み.
In Japanese, 尽力 (じんりょく (jinryoku)) is typically associated with "effort, exertion, endeavor (often for someone else's benefit or a common goal)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents ある目的のために、全力を尽くして努力すること。特に、他者のためや共通の目標のために努力する際に用いられる。.
On the other hand, 取り組み (とりくみ (torikumi)) maps to "effort, initiative, approach, measure" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to the actions or efforts taken to deal with a problem, implement a plan, or achieve a goal. Often used in formal or business contexts. Can be a noun or the stem of a verb. A literal translation of "effort" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "尽力"
皆様の多大なるご尽力に感謝申し上げます。
Thank you for your great efforts.
Bilingual Context for "取り組み"
環境問題への企業の取り組みが注目されている。
Companies' initiatives regarding environmental issues are drawing attention.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "皆様の多大なるご ＿＿＿ に感謝申し上げます。" (Meaning: "Thank you for your great efforts.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "尽力" fits here because it means "effort, exertion, endeavor (often for someone else's benefit or a common goal)" in the context of: "Thank you for your great efforts.". "取り組み" represents "effort, initiative, approach, measure".