努力 — meaning in English: effort

Usage

Native speakers often use 努力 (doryoku) in academic and professional settings, such as discussing the importance of hard work in school or at the workplace. For instance, a teacher might tell students that achieving good grades requires 努力, or a manager could emphasize that success in a project is a result of collective 努力 from the team.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is 努め (tsutome), which emphasizes the act of endeavoring or striving, often with a focus on duty. While both words convey the idea of effort, 努力 (doryoku) is broader and can refer to personal efforts in various contexts, whereas 努め (tsutome) is more about fulfilling responsibilities.

Culture

The term 努力 is deeply rooted in Japanese culture, reflecting the societal value placed on perseverance and hard work. It is often associated with the philosophy of 'kaizen,' which means continuous improvement, highlighting the belief that consistent effort leads to success. This word is emblematic of the Japanese work ethic, where effort is celebrated and seen as a virtue.

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