尽量

• Pinyin: jǐn liàng
• Hanzi breakdown: 尽 = simplified from 盡, depicting a hand wiping a vessel clean; 量 = 日 (sun) + 一 + 里 (inside), originally related to measuring

Meaning

As much as possible; to the greatest extent. Used before a verb to indicate making one's best effort.

Indicates that the speaker will try their best within given constraints. Softer than 一定 (definitely), as it implies effort without guaranteeing the outcome. Commonly used in requests, promises, and advice.

Examples

1. 请尽量早一点来。 Please try to come as early as possible.
2. 考试的时候要尽量仔细。 Try to be as careful as possible during the exam.
3. 我尽量在周五之前完成。 I'll try my best to finish before Friday.

Usage Guide

Context: requests, advice, everyday

Tone: encouraging

Do Say

• 你尽量多喝水。(Try to drink as much water as possible.)
• 我会尽量帮你的。(I'll do my best to help you.)

Don't Say

• 我尽量一定来。(Don't combine 尽量 with 一定 — they conflict. 尽量 means 'I'll try my best' while 一定 means 'definitely.' Choose one or the other.)

Origin & History

Compound of 尽 (to exhaust, to the utmost) and 量 (measure, capacity). Together meaning 'to the full measure of one's capacity.'

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal