Translation guide
Expresses doing something at every opportunity or as much as circumstances allow. Japanese uses conditional patterns, adverbs, and set phrases rather than a single word.
できるだけ歩いて通勤しています。
Whenever possible, I walk to work.
To say that someone does something each time a chance arises.
Literally 'if there is an opportunity'. A natural, common way to say 'whenever possible'.
機会があれば、旅行に行きたいです。
Whenever possible, I want to go traveling.
Means 'as much as possible'. Very common and versatile.
できるだけ早く来てください。
Please come as soon as possible.
Similar to できるだけ but slightly softer, 'if at all possible'.
なるべく静かにしてください。
Please be as quiet as possible.
Formal, 'to the extent possible'. Used in writing or formal speech.
可能な限り早急に対応いたします。
We will respond as soon as possible.
To express that an action is done when conditions permit, not necessarily every time.
Literally 'if circumstances can be arranged'. Natural for scheduling.
都合がつけば、来週会いましょう。
Let's meet next week whenever possible.
'If there is time'. Casual and common.
時間があれば、映画を見に行きます。
Whenever possible, I go see a movie.
Both mean 'as much as possible', but できるだけ is more direct and common. なるべく is slightly softer and often used in requests.
できるだけ早く返事をください。
Please reply as soon as possible.
なるべく早く返事をください。
Please reply as soon as you can.