なるべく

• Reading: なるべく
• Romaji: narubeku
• Pronunciation: /na.ɾɯ.be.kɯ/

Meaning

As much as possible; wherever practicable; if possible. Used when expressing a preference or ideal action.

An adverb meaning to the extent possible. Used to express a soft request or personal goal rather than an absolute requirement. なるべく早く来てください (please come as early as possible) is softer than 早く来てください (come early). Derived from なる (to become) + べく (should), literally meaning as it should become.

Examples

1. なるべく野菜をたくさん食べるようにしています。 I try to eat as many vegetables as possible.
2. 明日はなるべく早く来てください。 Please come as early as possible tomorrow.
3. なるべく日本語で話すようにしましょう。 Let's try to speak in Japanese as much as possible.

Usage Guide

Context: requests, goals, advice

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

From 成るべく, combining 成る (naru, to become) with べく (beku, the conjunctive form of べし meaning should). Literally means as it should become — expressing an ideal outcome.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal