The Kanji: 努 (Do / Tsuto)
The kanji 努 means "to strive," "to endeavor," or "to make an effort." It combines 奴 (servant) with 力 (strength), originally depicting a servant exerting strength in their duties. This character represents diligent effort and conscientious labor.
Common Words & Example Sentences
1. 努力 (doryoku) - Effort
成功には努力が必要だ。
"Success requires effort."
2. 努める (tsutomeru) - To strive
平和のために努める。
"Strive for peace."
3. 勤努 (kinro) - Diligence (alternative reading)
彼の勤努が評価された。
"His diligence was appreciated."
4. 努めて (tsutomete) - Consciously
努めて明るく振る舞う。
"Consciously behave cheerfully."
In summary, 努 describes conscious exertion - from sustained hard work (努力) and purposeful striving (努める) to deliberate actions (努めて). It embodies the cultural value placed on diligent effort in Japanese society.