Meaning and Usage
"努めて" (つとめて) is an adverb used to express making a conscious effort or trying hard to do something, often with a nuance of doing it deliberately or with intention. It is commonly used in formal or written contexts.
Common Collocations
- 努めて冷静に (つとめてれいせいに): make an effort to stay calm
- 努めて明るく (つとめてあかるく): try to act cheerfully
- 努めて遅刻しないように (つとめてちこくしないように): make an effort not to be late
These collocations show how "努めて" modifies verbs or adjectives to emphasize deliberate effort.
Register and Nuance
"努めて" is more formal and literary than casual expressions like "がんばって". It often appears in written language, speeches, or polite conversation. Using it conveys a sense of conscious, purposeful effort rather than spontaneous or emotional trying.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "努めて" with the verb "努める" (to work for, to serve). Remember that "努めて" is an adverb meaning "make an effort" and is used to modify verbs or adjectives, not as a verb itself.
Summary
Use "努めて" when you want to emphasize that someone is deliberately trying to do something, especially in formal or polite contexts. It helps express intentional effort with a calm or positive attitude.