Translation guide
The English word "endeavor" can be a noun meaning a serious effort or attempt, or a verb meaning to try hard to do something. In Japanese, there is no single perfect equivalent; the best choice depends on whether you are talking about an effort, a project, or the act of striving.
Referring to a determined effort, undertaking, or attempt to achieve something.
The most common and general word for effort or endeavor. Can be used in many contexts, from personal goals to professional projects.
Expressing the action of striving or making a serious effort to achieve something.
The most direct way to say "endeavor to do something." Combines the volitional form of a verb with 努力する (to make an effort).
努力 (どりょく) is the most general term for effort and can be used for both personal and professional endeavors. 取り組み (とりくみ) emphasizes a proactive approach or initiative, often used in organizational contexts. 試み (こころみ) implies an attempt or trial, often with a sense of experimentation or challenge.
There is no single Japanese verb that directly translates 'to endeavor.' Instead, use patterns like 〜ようと努力する or 〜ように努める. Simply using 努力する without a purpose clause can sound incomplete.
彼女はプロジェクトを期限内に終わらせようと努力した。
She endeavored to finish the project on time.
彼の努力が実を結んだ。
His endeavors bore fruit.
成功は努力次第だ。
Success depends on your endeavors.
Refers to an initiative, undertaking, or proactive effort, often used in business, education, or social contexts.
環境保護への取り組みを強化する。
We will strengthen our environmental endeavors.
An attempt or trial, often implying something new or experimental. Closer to "attempt" but can translate "endeavor" in contexts of trying something challenging.
新しい事業の試みが始まった。
A new business endeavor has begun.
A project, enterprise, or undertaking, often on a larger scale. Suitable for business or organizational endeavors.
この事業は多くの困難を伴った。
This endeavor involved many difficulties.
We are endeavoring to solve the problem.
彼女は目標を達成しようと努力した。
She endeavored to achieve her goal.
A slightly more formal pattern meaning "to strive to do something." Often used in written or official contexts.
全員が参加できるように努めます。
We will endeavor to ensure everyone can participate.
To strive, to work hard at something. Often used with a noun marked by に to indicate the endeavor.
彼は研究に励んでいる。
He is endeavoring in his research.
To make an effort, to exert oneself. Formal and often used in business or official statements.
問題の早期解決に尽力します。
We will endeavor to resolve the issue promptly.
His scientific endeavors led to a breakthrough.