This site will be taken down March 31st, 2026.

This was not an easy decision to make. For the last couple years, I have been struggling to find motivation for this site and to keep up with basic maintenance and security updates. With the rise of AI and more sophisticated tools, the usefulness of sites like this is questionable and traffic has nose-dived. I just don't have it in me to keep doing this. Thank you all for 10 years of support!

Zach

努める

勉める、 力める

Reading

Kana: つとめる
Romaji: tsutomeru
Kana
Romaji

Definition

v1
vt
1

to endeavor (endeavour); to try; to strive; to make an effort; to exert oneself; to be diligent; to be committed (to doing something)

Kanji

Readings: ド、 つと.める
Meanings: toil, diligent, as much as possible
Readings: ベン、 つと.める
Meanings: exertion, endeavour, encourage, strive, make effort, diligent
Readings: リョク、 リキ、 リイ、 ちから
Meanings: power, strength, strong, strain, bear up, exert

Example Sentences

説得(せっとく)(つと)めた。
➥We tried to persuade him.
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(わたし)(わら)わないように(つと)めた。
➥I tried not to laugh.
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(かれ)体重(たいじゅう)()らそうと(つと)めた。
➥He tried to reduce his weight.
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自制(じせい)するよう(つと)めなさい。
➥Try to control yourself.
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彼女(かのじょ)()かないように(つと)めた。
➥She tried not to cry.
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体力(たいりょく)()やすように(つと)めなさい。
➥Try to build up your strength.
Full Entry➤
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