できるだけ

• Reading: できるだけ
• Romaji: dekirudake
• Pronunciation: /de.ki.ɾɯ.da.ke/

Meaning

As much as possible; if at all possible. Used to express doing something to the greatest extent one can.

A compound expression formed from できる (can do) + だけ (to the extent of). Functions as an adverb modifying verbs and adjectives. Often used with requests and personal goals. Similar to なるべく but できるだけ emphasizes maximum effort while なるべく emphasizes ideal outcome.

Examples

1. できるだけ早く宿題を終わらせたい。 I want to finish my homework as soon as possible.
2. 旅行の前にできるだけお金を貯めています。 I'm saving up as much money as I can before the trip.
3. できるだけ毎日日本語を勉強するようにしています。 I try to study Japanese every day as much as possible.

Usage Guide

Context: requests, goals, daily life

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of できる (dekiru, to be able) and だけ (dake, to the extent of). Literally means to the extent that one can — expressing maximum effort or capacity.

Cultural Context

Era: Early Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal