Translation guide
To work hard, focus, or dedicate effort to a task or goal.
Expressing that someone works diligently or puts serious effort into something.
A very common and natural way to say 'work hard' or 'do one's best'. It implies putting in your utmost effort.
Emphasizing mental focus or concentration on a specific activity.
Means 'to concentrate'. It's the most direct way to express focusing one's attention.
Expressing long-term dedication or commitment to a field, study, or cause.
Do not translate 'apply oneself' literally as 自分を適用する (jibun o tekiyou suru). This is nonsensical in Japanese. Use the expressions above instead.
I'm applying myself to studying for the exam.
Means 'to make an effort' or 'to strive'. It's a standard, slightly formal verb for applying oneself.
He applied himself to achieve his goal.
Literally 'to tackle something seriously'. It emphasizes a sincere, diligent approach to a task.
Please apply yourself to your work.
An idiomatic expression meaning 'to devote oneself to' or 'to work hard at'. Slightly literary or formal.
He is applying himself to his research.
Apply yourself to your studies.
Literally 'to put one's body into'. It means to put one's heart and soul into something, to apply oneself earnestly.
Apply yourself to your work.
Means 'to devote oneself to' or 'to be absorbed in'. It implies passionate, wholehearted engagement.
He applies himself to volunteer work.
Means 'to devote oneself exclusively' or 'to concentrate on'. Often used for focusing on one thing.
She is applying herself to her research.