to exhaust, to use up, to deplete

JLPT N1 6 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Usage and Nuances

The character (jìn) primarily means "to exhaust," "to use up," or "to do one's utmost." It often appears in contexts where resources, efforts, or time are completely consumed or fully dedicated.

Common Collocations

  • 尽力 (jìn lì): to do one's best, to exert all effort
  • 尽快 (jìn kuài): as soon as possible, promptly
  • 可能 (jìn kě néng): as much as possible

Practical Notes

is frequently used in formal or written Chinese to emphasize thoroughness or completeness. It can be followed by verbs or appear in set phrases. Unlike some synonyms like (to use up), often carries a stronger sense of doing something to the fullest extent.

Avoiding Confusion

Do not confuse with 尽管 (jǐn guǎn), which means "although" or "even though." focuses on completion or exhaustion, while 尽管 introduces concessive clauses.

Example Sentences

He did his utmost to complete the task.

Time is almost up; we need to speed up.

He used up all his money to help his friend.