Word
全力
Meaning in Englishall one's power, whole energy
Animated kanji stroke order
Word context
What it means
全力 refers to putting maximum effort or energy into a task, using all of one’s strength to achieve a result.
Main meanings
- Maximum effort as a noun: the state of applying all available power to a task
- All-out manner: as an adverbial modifier in phrases like 全力で to indicate doing something with full force
- Collocations with 尽くす: 全力を尽くす to do one’s utmost
How to use it
Used in both casual and formal contexts to express taking on a challenge with complete commitment; common in sports commentary, motivational speech, business aims, and exams; attaches with particles like で and を particularly in phrases 全力で and 全力を尽くす; conveys intensity without overstating risk.
Variants and close terms
- 一生懸命 (isshōkenmei) — maximal effort
- 全力で (zenryoku de) — with full power
- 全力を尽くす (zenryoku o tsukusu) — do one’s utmost
- 手を抜く (te o nuku) — to slack off (antonym)
Composition
- 全 — all, entire; on'yomi zen
- 力 — power, strength; on'yomi ryoku
Word class
Noun (名詞)