図る

• Reading: はかる
• Romaji: hakaru
• Kanji breakdown: 図 (zu/to/haka) — diagram, plan, attempt
• Pronunciation: /ha.ka.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To plot; to attempt; to devise; to aim for. To make a plan or strive toward a goal.

A Group 1 (godan) transitive verb conjugated with the る row (図らない, 図ります). Different from 計る (to measure) and 諮る (to consult). Used for planning, scheming, or striving: 自殺を図る (to attempt suicide), 合理化を図る (to pursue rationalization), 便宜を図る (to arrange for convenience). Often appears in formal or written language.

Examples

1. 会社は業務の効率化を図っている。 The company is working to improve operational efficiency.
2. 両国は関係の改善を図ることで合意した。 The two countries agreed to work toward improving their relationship.
3. 地域の活性化を図るためにイベントを企画した。 They organized an event to promote revitalization of the region.

Usage Guide

Context: business, policy, planning

Tone: strategic

Origin & History

The kanji 図 (zu/to) originally depicted a granary plan or map. From 'drawing a plan' came the extended meaning of devising, plotting, or aiming for a particular outcome.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: Adults

Social background: Universal