努めて
Meanings
1
as much as possible; diligently; to the best of one's ability
Used when making a conscious effort to do something; often implies striving or trying hard. Common in formal and written contexts.
He tried to speak as calmly as possible.
I made a point of acting cheerfully.
Usage patterns
- 努めて〈動詞〉to make a conscious effort to do something
He made a conscious effort to act cheerfully.
- 努めて〈形容詞〉にto try hard to be (in a certain state)
During the interview, I tried hard to speak calmly.