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無理をしない

B1 phrase #3,500 am häufigsten 11 Min. Lesezeit

無理をしない

muri o shinai Top 3,500

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Erklärung 無理をしない in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should learn '無理をしない' (Muri o shinai) as a simple set phrase used to say 'Don't overdo it.' You might hear it from a teacher or a doctor. It is made of 'Muri' (impossible/too much) and 'shinai' (don't do). Think of it as a way to tell someone to be careful with their health. For example, if a friend is sick, you can say 'Muri o shinaide' (Don't push yourself). It is a very kind thing to say. You don't need to know all the grammar yet; just remember that 'Muri' means 'too much' and 'shinai' means 'not do.' This phrase helps you show that you care about other people. You will see it in simple stories where a character is tired. It is one of the most useful phrases for being polite and friendly in Japan. Even as a beginner, saying this to a friend who is working hard will make you sound very natural and caring. Just remember: Muri = Too much, Shinai = Don't do. Together: Don't do too much!

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At the A2 level, you can start to understand the structure of '無理をしない' more clearly. You recognize the 'o' particle (を) which connects the noun 'Muri' to the verb 'shinai.' You also learn that 'shinai' is the casual negative form of 'suru' (to do). You can use 'Muri o shinaide kudasai' to be more polite. This is perfect for when you are talking to someone you don't know very well, like a shopkeeper who looks very busy or a teacher. You can also use it to describe yourself, like 'Kyō wa muri o shimasen' (I won't overdo it today). At this level, you should practice using it in different situations: at school, at home, or when you are feeling a bit sick. It's a great way to practice negative verb forms. You might also see it written as '無理しない' in text messages, where the 'o' is often skipped. This is a common way for friends to talk. Understanding this phrase helps you navigate daily life in Japan because people say it all the time to be helpful and kind.

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At the B1 level, you should understand that '無理をしない' is more than just a phrase; it's a cultural concept. You can use it in more complex sentences, like 'Muri o shinai han'i de gambatte kudasai' (Please do your best within the range of not overdoing it). You are now able to use various forms like 'muri o shinai you ni' (so as not to overdo it) or 'muri o shinai hou ga ii' (it's better not to overdo it). You should also be aware of the social context. For instance, you know that telling a boss 'Muri o shinaide' might be too casual, so you might choose a different expression. You can use this phrase to set boundaries in your own life, explaining to others why you are taking a break. It's also useful in discussions about health, exercise, and work-life balance. You can conjugate the verb into 'muri o shinakatta' (didn't overdo it) to reflect on past actions. This level is about nuance and choosing the right form for the right person.

At the B2 level, you can use '無理をしない' in sophisticated ways, such as in business discussions or academic contexts. You understand that 'Muri' (無理) is a noun that can also be used as a 'na-adjective' (muri-na), but in this specific phrase, it functions as an object. you can analyze the phrase's role in the 'Gaman' culture of Japan—how it acts as a necessary release valve for social pressure. You can use it to give nuanced advice, like 'Muri o shinai koto ga, kekkyoku wa ichiban no chikamichi desu' (Not overdoing it is, in the end, the best shortcut). You can also handle the potential negative connotations; for example, you know how to avoid sounding like you're telling someone to give up. You understand the difference between 'muri o shinai' and 'muri wa shinai,' where the latter emphasizes that while other things might be difficult, overexertion is the one thing you definitely won't do. Your usage should be fluid, incorporating it into long, complex sentences with ease.

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At the C1 level, you have a deep mastery of '無理をしない' and can use it to discuss complex psychological and societal issues. You can speak about the 'Muri o shinai lifestyle' trend in Japan and how it relates to concepts like 'Satori Sedai' (the enlightened generation) or 'Work-Life Balance' initiatives. You understand the historical etymology of 'Muri' and how its meaning has shifted from 'impossible' to a more subjective 'overexertion.' You can use the phrase in formal writing, such as essays or reports, and you know exactly when to substitute it with more formal terms like 'go-jiai' or 'fuka o kakenai.' You are sensitive to the subtle power dynamics involved in saying this phrase—how it can be used to offer genuine support or, conversely, how it can be used dismissively. Your pronunciation and intonation are natural, conveying the appropriate level of empathy or self-resolve. You can also identify the phrase in high-level literature and cinema, understanding its thematic significance regarding the limits of the human spirit.

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At the C2 level, your understanding of '無理をしない' is indistinguishable from that of a native speaker. You possess an intuitive grasp of the phrase's 'hidden' meanings and can use it with perfect rhetorical effect. You can engage in debates about the societal implications of a 'Muri o shinai' attitude—whether it leads to a healthier society or a decrease in national competitiveness. You are comfortable using the phrase in its most abstract forms and can pun on it or use it ironically. You understand the full spectrum of its grammatical possibilities, including rare or archaic variations. You can advise others on the sociolinguistic 'correctness' of the phrase in various micro-contexts, such as specific regional dialects or highly specialized professional fields. For you, '無理をしない' is not just a vocabulary item but a flexible tool for navigating the intricate web of Japanese social relations (Kanjinshugi). You can explain its nuance to others with clarity, citing cultural examples and linguistic theory to support your explanations.

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無理をしない in 30 Sekunden

Avoid overexertion.
Prioritize health.
Set healthy boundaries.
Sustainable effort.

The phrase 無理をしない (Muri o shinai) is a cornerstone of modern Japanese interpersonal communication, acting as a gentle buffer against the societal pressures of extreme diligence and perseverance. At its core, it translates to 'not to overdo it' or 'not to push oneself beyond reasonable limits.' In a culture historically defined by the concept of Gaman (endurance) and Gambaru (doing one's best), this phrase serves as a vital linguistic tool for self-care and mutual concern. It acknowledges that everyone has physical, mental, and emotional thresholds that should not be breached for the sake of productivity or social expectation.

The Concept of 'Muri': The word 'Muri' (無理) literally means 'without reason' or 'unreasonable.' When you 'do Muri' (muri o suru), you are attempting something that is logically or physically unsustainable. Therefore, 'muri o shinai' is the conscious decision to stay within the realm of the possible and the healthy.

体調が悪い時は、絶対に無理をしないほうがいいですよ。
(When you're not feeling well, it's definitely better not to overdo it.)

This phrase is ubiquitous because it applies to almost every facet of life. In the workplace, a colleague might say it to you when they see you staying late for the fifth night in a row. In sports, a coach might use it to prevent an athlete from aggravating an injury. In social settings, it is used to decline invitations or responsibilities that would cause undue stress. It is a phrase of permission—permission to be human, to be tired, and to prioritize health over output.

Contextual Nuance: While often used as advice to others, it is also a powerful internal mantra. Saying 'muri o shinai' to oneself is an act of mindfulness, recognizing that long-term success requires sustainable effort rather than short-term burnout.

明日の締め切りは厳しいですが、無理をしない範囲で進めてください。
(Tomorrow's deadline is tough, but please proceed without overextending yourself.)

Furthermore, the phrase is often paired with the particle 'de' to form 'muri o shinaide' (please don't overdo it), which is a standard parting phrase when someone is leaving work or recovering from an illness. It demonstrates a holistic view of productivity where the well-being of the individual is recognized as the foundation for any work performed. In contemporary Japan, where the term 'Karoshi' (death from overwork) exists, 'muri o shinai' has become more than just a polite suggestion; it is a necessary cultural corrective and a vital part of the conversation surrounding mental health and work-life balance.

Social Harmony: Interestingly, using this phrase can also be a way to maintain social harmony (Wa). By telling someone else not to overdo it, you are signaling that you do not have unreasonable expectations of them, which reduces their anxiety and strengthens the bond between you.

自分のペースでいいから、無理をしないでね。
(Your own pace is fine, so don't push yourself too hard, okay?)

ダイエット中も、無理をしないことがリバウンドを防ぐコツです。
(Even during a diet, not overdoing it is the secret to avoiding the rebound effect.)

Understanding the grammatical structure of 無理をしない is essential for using it naturally. The phrase consists of the noun muri (無理), the object marker o (を), and the negative form of the verb suru (する), which is shinai (しない). This negative form can be conjugated in various ways depending on the level of politeness and the intended nuance of the sentence.

Polite Requests: To make a polite request or give advice to someone else, you typically use the 'te-form' plus 'kudasai'. The negative 'te-form' of 'suru' is 'shinaide'. Thus, '無理をしないでください' (Muri o shinaide kudasai) is the most common way to tell someone 'Please don't overdo it.'

お疲れのようですから、今日は無理をしないでください。
(You look tired, so please don't overdo it today.)

When talking about your own intentions, you use the plain form 'shinai' or the polite form 'shimasen'. For example, '私は無理をしません' (Watashi wa muri o shimasen) means 'I will not overdo it.' This is often used when setting boundaries. You can also use the 'koto' nominalizer to turn the phrase into a general rule or goal: '無理をしないことが大切です' (Muri o shinai koto ga taisetsu desu - Not overdoing it is important).

Conditional Usage: Using 'youni' (so that) is very common when giving well-wishes. '無理をしないようにね' (Muri o shinai you ni ne) translates to 'Try not to overdo it, okay?' This is softer and more friendly than a direct command.

毎日忙しいと思うけど、無理をしないように気をつけてね。
(I think you're busy every day, but please be careful not to overdo it.)

Another important construction is the 'hou ga ii' (it is better to) pattern. '無理をしないほうがいい' (Muri o shinai hou ga ii) is a standard way to give advice, suggesting that 'not pushing oneself' is the superior course of action in a given situation. This is frequently heard in medical or health-related contexts.

Descriptive Usage: The phrase can also act as a modifier for nouns. For example, '無理をしない計画' (Muri o shinai keikaku) means 'a plan that isn't overambitious' or 'a sustainable plan.'

一週間で5キロ痩せるなんて、無理をしない範囲を超えています。
(Losing 5kg in a week is beyond the range of not overdoing it.)

Finally, consider the use of 'nara' (if). '無理をしないなら、手伝いますよ' (Muri o shinai nara, tetsudaimasu yo) means 'If you promise not to overdo it, I will help you.' This highlights the collaborative aspect of the phrase, where support is offered on the condition of the other person's self-care.

長く続けたいなら、最初は無理をしないことが一番です。
(If you want to continue for a long time, not overdoing it at the start is the best thing.)

If you live in Japan or consume Japanese media, you will encounter 無理をしない daily. It is perhaps most common in the workplace. Despite the stereotype of the 'Salaryman' who works until exhaustion, modern Japanese corporate culture is increasingly emphasizing mental health. You will hear managers telling their team members 'Muri o shinaide' before a long weekend or after a particularly grueling project. It serves as a social lubricant, acknowledging the hard work while signaling that the employee's health is valued.

Medical and Health Settings: Doctors and nurses are the primary users of this phrase. When you leave a clinic after a cold or an injury, the standard advice is 'Muri o shinaide, yukkuri yasunde kudasai' (Don't overdo it, and take a good rest). In this context, it is a clinical instruction to avoid physical strain.

お薬を出しておきますが、数日は無理をしないようにしてください。
(I'll prescribe some medicine, but please try not to overdo it for a few days.)

In the world of sports and fitness, especially in yoga or pilates classes, instructors frequently use this phrase. They want to encourage students to push themselves, but not to the point of injury. You'll hear 'Muri o shinai han'i de' (Within the range of not overdoing it) as a qualifier for various exercises. It teaches students to listen to their bodies and respect their limits.

Family and Friendships: Between friends and family, it is a term of endearment and concern. If a mother sees her child studying late for exams, she might bring in some tea and say 'Amari muri o shinaide ne' (Don't overdo it too much, okay?). It is a way of saying 'I care about you more than your grades.'

テスト勉強は大変だけど、無理をしないで早く寝なさい。
(Studying for tests is hard, but don't overdo it and go to bed early.)

In anime and drama, this phrase is often used during emotional peaks. A character might be trying to save everyone or take on a burden alone, and another character will grab their hand and say 'Mou muri o shinaide!' (Don't push yourself anymore!). In these fictional contexts, the phrase carries heavy emotional weight, representing a plea for the protagonist to stop sacrificing themselves.

Self-Help and Media: You will see this phrase in headlines of lifestyle magazines or self-help books. 'Muri o shinai ikikata' (A way of living without overdoing it) is a popular theme, advocating for a minimalist or slow-paced lifestyle in the face of modern chaos.

最近のトレンドは、無理をしない美容法です。
(The recent trend is beauty routines that don't involve overdoing it.)

暑い日は、無理をしないで水分を摂ってください。
(On hot days, don't overdo it and please stay hydrated.)

While 無理をしない seems straightforward, English speakers often trip up on its specific cultural and grammatical nuances. The most common mistake is using it as a direct translation for 'Don't be lazy' or 'Don't quit.' In reality, it means the exact opposite. It is an instruction to stop or slow down, not to keep going. If you tell someone 'Muri o shinaide' when they are actually being lazy, you are accidentally giving them permission to continue being lazy, which is likely not your intention.

Confusing with 'Gambaranai': Many learners confuse 'Muri o shinai' with 'Gambaranai' (not doing one's best). 'Gambaranai' has a negative connotation of lack of effort. 'Muri o shinai' is positive; it implies you ARE working hard, but you should stop before it becomes harmful. Use 'Muri o shinai' to show concern; 'Gambaranai' is rarely used as advice unless you're telling someone to relax their intensity.

❌ 怠けている人に「無理をしないで」と言う。
✅ 頑張りすぎている人に「無理をしないで」と言う。
(Don't say 'Muri o shinaide' to a lazy person; say it to someone overworking.)

Another error is the misapplication of politeness levels. Saying 'Muri o shinai de!' to a superior (like your boss) can sometimes come across as overly familiar or even slightly condescending, as if you are managing their health for them. While the sentiment is kind, it's better to use more formal expressions like 'O-karada o o-taisetsu ni' (Please take care of your body/health) when speaking to someone of higher status.

The 'O' Particle Omission: In textbook Japanese, the 'o' (を) is mandatory. In casual speech, it's often dropped ('Muri shinai'). However, learners sometimes drop it in formal writing, which is a mistake. Keep the 'o' in any context that isn't purely conversational with friends.

❌ ビジネスメール：無理しないでください。
✅ ビジネスメール：無理をしないでください。
(In business emails, include the 'o' particle for proper form.)

A subtle mistake involves the difference between 'Muri o shinai' and 'Muri wa shinai.' Using the particle 'wa' instead of 'o' adds a contrastive emphasis. 'Muri wa shinai' implies 'I might do other things, but I definitely won't overdo it.' While not 'wrong,' using 'wa' when you just mean a general 'I won't overdo it' can sound slightly defensive or specific in a way you might not mean.

❌ 手術の前に「無理をしないで」と言う。
✅ 手術の前に「お大事に」と言う。
(Before surgery, say 'O-daiji ni' (Take care) rather than 'Muri o shinaide'.)

While 無理をしない is a versatile phrase, Japanese offers several alternatives that can provide more specific nuances depending on the situation. Understanding these allows for more precise communication.

ほどほどにする (Hodohodo ni suru): This means 'to do something in moderation.' While 'Muri o shinai' focuses on avoiding the 'impossible' or 'excessive,' 'Hodohodo ni suru' focuses on finding the 'just right' middle ground. It's often used with drinking or eating.

お酒はほどほどにしないと、体に悪いですよ。
(If you don't drink in moderation, it's bad for your health.)

Another common alternative is 余裕を持つ (Yoyuu o motsu), which means 'to have a margin' or 'to leave some room.' This is more proactive than 'Muri o shinai.' Instead of just 'not overdoing it,' you are actively ensuring you have extra time, energy, or money so that you don't reach the point of 'Muri' in the first place.

自分を大切にする (Jibun o taisetsu ni suru): This means 'to take care of yourself' or 'to value yourself.' This is the emotional and philosophical foundation of 'Muri o shinai.' It's often used in more intimate or deep conversations about lifestyle and mental health.

仕事も大事だけど、もっと自分を大切にしてください。
(Work is important, but please take better care of yourself.)

In formal contexts, especially when expressing concern for someone's health, ご自愛ください (Gojiai kudasai) is used. This is a very polite, set phrase used at the end of letters or emails, meaning 'Please take care of yourself.' It is much more formal than 'Muri o shinaide kudasai' and is appropriate for business correspondence.

Comparison Table

Phrase	Nuance	Context
無理をしない	Avoid overexertion	General/Daily
ほどほどにする	Moderation	Habits/Eating
余裕を持つ	Proactive margin	Planning/Time
ご自愛ください	Formal care	Letters/Email

忙しい時期ですが、無理をせずに、休み休みやっていきましょう。
(It's a busy time, but let's take it slow and steady without overdoing it.)

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

In the Edo period, 'Muri' was sometimes used by samurai to describe an unreasonable order from a superior that nonetheless had to be followed. Today, it has shifted to a much more personal, health-oriented context.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /mu.ɾi o ʃi.na.i/

US /mu.ɾi o ʃi.na.i/

Pitch accent: Mu-ri has a 'Heiban' (flat) or 'Atamadaka' (initial high) pattern depending on dialect, but usually the whole phrase flows with a slight rise and fall on 'nai'.

Reimt sich auf

Amai (sweet) Kowai (scary) Tooi (far) Aoi (blue) Hatsumei (invention - partial) Sainai (unfortunate) Kitanai (dirty) Abunai (dangerous)

Häufige Fehler

Pronouncing 'ri' like the English 'ree' with a bunched tongue.
Stress-timing the syllables like English instead of using Japanese mora-timing.
Over-emphasizing the 'o' particle.
Making the 'u' in 'mu' too long.
Pronouncing 'nai' like 'nay'.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 2/5

Kanji are common and easy to recognize.

Schreiben 3/5

The kanji for 'Muri' (無理) require some practice but are essential.

Sprechen 1/5

Very easy to pronounce and use in daily life.

Hören 1/5

Extremely common in conversation and media.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

する (suru) ない (nai) 体 (karada) 休む (yasumu) 頑張る (gambaru)

Als Nächstes lernen

ほどほど (hodohodo) 余裕 (yoyuu) 適度 (tekido) 控える (hikaeru) 養生 (youjou)

Fortgeschritten

止揚 (shiyou) 実存 (jitsuzon) 倫理 (rinri) 包摂 (houshetsu) 模索 (mosaku)

Wichtige Grammatik

Negative Te-form (〜ないで)

無理をしないで、休んで。

Advice pattern (〜ほうがいい)

無理をしないほうがいいですよ。

Nominalization with 'koto'

無理をしないことが大切だ。

Appearance with 'yousu'

無理をしない様子だ。

Purpose/Softening with 'you ni'

無理をしないようにね。

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Beispiele nach Niveau

無理をしないでください。

Please don't overdo it.

Uses the polite 'te-form + kudasai' for a request.

今日は無理をしない。

I won't overdo it today.

Plain form used for a personal decision.

無理をしないでおやすみなさい。

Don't overdo it, and good night.

'shinaide' connects the two clauses.

無理をしないほうがいいですよ。

It's better not to overdo it.

'hou ga ii' is used for giving advice.

あまり無理をしないでね。

Don't overdo it too much, okay?

'amari' (too much) and 'ne' (softening particle).

無理をしない、無理をしない。

Don't overdo it, don't overdo it.

Repetition for emphasis/self-calming.

無理をしないことが大切です。

Not overdoing it is important.

'koto' nominalizes the phrase into a subject.

無理をしない生活。

A life without overdoing it.

The phrase acts as an adjective for 'seikatsu' (life).

風邪をひいた時は、無理をしないようにしましょう。

When you have a cold, let's try not to overdo it.

'you ni shimashou' suggests a collective goal or soft advice.

無理をしない範囲で手伝ってください。

Please help within the range of not overdoing it.

'han'i de' (within the range) limits the scope of the request.

仕事が忙しくても、無理をしないことが一番です。

Even if work is busy, not overdoing it is the best.

'te mo' (even if) provides a conditional context.

無理をしないで作った料理はおいしい。

Food made without overdoing it is delicious.

'shinaide' explains the manner in which the food was made.

無理をしないで、ゆっくり歩きましょう。

Don't overdo it; let's walk slowly.

Combines advice with a suggestion for action.

彼は無理をしない性格です。

He has a personality where he doesn't overdo things.

The phrase describes the noun 'seikaku' (personality).

無理をしないように気をつけて帰ってね。

Take care not to overdo it on your way home.

'ki o tsukete' (be careful) reinforces the advice.

明日は休みだから、今日は無理をしない。

Tomorrow is a holiday, so I won't overdo it today.

'kara' (because) gives the reason for the decision.

ダイエットを成功させるには、無理をしないことが不可欠です。

To make a diet successful, not overdoing it is essential.

'fukaketsu' (essential) is a B1 level vocabulary item.

自分の限界を知って、無理をしないように努めています。

I know my limits and am striving not to overdo it.

'tsutomete imasu' (striving/making an effort).

無理をしない程度に、毎日ジョギングをしています。

I jog every day to an extent that isn't overdoing it.

'teido ni' (to the extent of) is a more formal version of 'han'i de'.

無理をしない約束で、新しいプロジェクトを引き受けた。

I took on the new project on the promise of not overdoing it.

'yakusoku de' (on the condition/promise of).

無理をしないほうが、結果的に長く続けられます。

It's better not to overdo it; consequently, you can continue longer.

'kekka-teki ni' (as a result) shows logical progression.

周囲の期待に応えようとして、無理をしないようにしてください。

Please try not to overdo it by trying to meet everyone's expectations.

'ni kotaeyou to shite' (trying to respond to).

無理をしないという選択も、時には必要です。

The choice to not overdo it is also necessary sometimes.

'to iu sentaku' (the choice called...).

彼は無理をしない主義なので、残業はほとんどしません。

Since he has a principle of not overdoing it, he rarely works overtime.

'shugi' (principle/policy).

持続可能な社会のためには、無理をしない経済活動が求められる。

For a sustainable society, economic activities that don't overreach are required.

'jizoku kanou' (sustainable) and 'motomerareru' (is required).

無理をしない範囲で、最大限のパフォーマンスを発揮する。

To demonstrate maximum performance within the range of not overdoing it.

'saidai-gen' (maximum) and 'hakki suru' (to demonstrate/exert).

心身の健康を維持するため、無理をしないことを最優先にしている。

To maintain physical and mental health, I make not overdoing it my top priority.

'shinshin' (mind and body) and 'sai-yuusen' (top priority).

無理をしないことが、創造性を高める鍵となる場合がある。

Not overdoing it can sometimes be the key to enhancing creativity.

'souzou-sei' (creativity) and 'kagi to naru' (become the key).

無理をしないようにと忠告されたが、彼は耳を貸さなかった。

He was warned not to overdo it, but he didn't listen.

'chuukoku' (warning/advice) and 'mimi o kasanai' (didn't listen).

無理をしない勇気を持つことが、現代人には必要だ。

Modern people need the courage to not overdo it.

'yuuki' (courage) used with the phrase as a modifier.

無理をしないという方針が、チームの士気を高めた。

The policy of not overdoing it boosted the team's morale.

'houshin' (policy) and 'shiki' (morale).

無理をしない程度のリハビリから始めるのが一般的だ。

It is common to start with rehabilitation to an extent that isn't overdoing it.

'rihabiri' and 'ippan-teki' (general/common).

「無理をしない」という美学が、今の若者の間で共感を呼んでいる。

The aesthetic of 'not overdoing it' is resonating among today's youth.

'bigaku' (aesthetic) and 'kyoukan o yobu' (resonate/call for empathy).

過剰な競争社会において、無理をしない生き方を模索する。

In an excessively competitive society, one seeks a way of life that doesn't involve overreaching.

'mosaku suru' (to grope for/seek).

無理をしないことが、長期的には組織の利益に繋がる。

Not overdoing it leads to organizational profit in the long run.

'soshiki no rieki' (organizational profit).

無理をしないという態度は、一見消極的だが、実は非常に理にかなっている。

The attitude of not overdoing it seems passive at first glance, but it is actually very logical.

'ikken' (at first glance) and 'ri ni kanatte iru' (is logical).

無理をしない範囲での自己実現を、彼は目指している。

He aims for self-actualization within the scope of not overdoing it.

'jiko jitsugen' (self-actualization).

無理をしないことの重要性を、改めて認識する必要がある。

There is a need to re-recognize the importance of not overdoing it.

'aratamete' (anew/again) and 'ninshiki suru' (recognize).

無理をしない関係性こそが、パートナーシップを長続きさせる。

A relationship where neither party overextends is what makes a partnership last.

'kankeisei' (relationship) and 'nagatsuzuki saseru' (make last long).

無理をしないという言葉の裏には、深い自己省察が隠されている。

Behind the words 'not overdoing it' lies deep self-reflection.

'ura ni wa' (behind/underneath) and 'seisatsu' (reflection).

無理をしないというパラダイムシフトが、労働倫理の再定義を迫っている。

The paradigm shift of 'not overdoing it' is forcing a redefinition of work ethics.

'paradaimu shifuto' and 'saideigi' (redefinition).

無理をしないという言説は、資本主義への一つの静かな抵抗とも取れる。

The discourse of 'not overdoing it' can be taken as a form of quiet resistance to capitalism.

'gensetsu' (discourse) and 'teikou' (resistance).

無理をしないことを、単なる怠慢と峻別しなければならない。

We must strictly distinguish 'not overdoing it' from mere negligence.

'taiman' (negligence) and 'shunbetsu' (strict distinction).

無理をしないという境地に達するには、多大なる自己規律が必要だ。

Reaching the spiritual state of 'not overdoing it' requires a great deal of self-discipline.

'kyouchi' (spiritual state/attainment) and 'jikokiritsu' (self-discipline).

無理をしないという選択が、個人の実存的危機を救う契機となり得る。

The choice to not overdo it can serve as a catalyst for saving an individual from an existential crisis.

'jitsuzon-teki kiki' (existential crisis) and 'keiki' (catalyst/opportunity).

無理をしないというフィロソフィーは、古来の「足るを知る」に通じるものがある。

The philosophy of 'not overdoing it' has something in common with the ancient saying 'knowing when one has enough.'

'taru o shiru' (knowing satisfaction/sufficiency).

無理をしないという概念を、いかにして生産性と止揚させるかが課題だ。

The challenge lies in how to sublate the concept of 'not overdoing it' with productivity.

'shiyou' (sublation/aufheben - a Hegelian term).

無理をしないという言動が、社会全体の包摂性を高める。

Words and actions that emphasize 'not overdoing it' increase the inclusivity of society as a whole.

'gendou' (words and deeds) and 'houshou-sei' (inclusivity).

Häufige Kollokationen

絶対に無理をしない

無理をしない範囲で

無理をしない程度に

無理をしない生活

決して無理をしない

無理をしない計画

無理をしない勇気

無理をしない主義

無理をしない方法

無理をしない関係

Häufige Phrasen

無理をしないでください

— Please don't overdo it. The standard polite request.

お疲れ様です、無理をしないでください。

無理をしないように

— Try not to overdo it. A softer, advisory form.

無理をしないように気をつけてね。

無理をしないほうがいい

— It's better not to overdo it. Giving logical advice.

今は無理をしないほうがいいですよ。

無理をしないことが大切

— Not overdoing it is important. Stating a general truth.

何事も無理をしないことが大切です。

無理をしない程度にね

— To an extent that isn't overdoing it, okay? Casual advice.

勉強も、無理をしない程度にね。

無理をしないで作る

— To make something without stress.

無理をしないで作れるレシピ。

無理をしない生き方

— A way of living without overextending.

無理をしない生き方を選びました。

無理をしない範囲

— The scope of not overdoing it.

無理をしない範囲で頑張ります。

無理をしない約束

— A promise not to overdo it.

無理をしない約束で許可された。

無理をしない自分

— Myself when not overdoing it.

無理をしない自分を好きになる。

Wird oft verwechselt mit

無理をしない vs 頑張らない (Gambaranai)

'Gambaranai' means not trying at all, whereas 'Muri o shinai' means trying but not to an unhealthy extreme.

無理をしない vs 辞める (Yameru)

'Yameru' means to quit entirely. 'Muri o shinai' means to continue but at a lower, sustainable intensity.

無理をしない vs 怠ける (Namakeru)

'Namakeru' is being lazy. 'Muri o shinai' is being responsible with one's energy.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"無理が通れば道理が引っ込む"

— When unreasonableness prevails, reason retreats. Related to the core word 'Muri'.

無理が通れば道理が引っ込むような世の中だ。

Proverb

"無理を承知で"

— Knowing it is unreasonable/impossible but doing it anyway.

無理を承知でお願いしています。

Formal

"無理からぬ"

— Not unreasonable; understandable.

彼が怒るのも無理からぬことだ。

Literary

"無理心中"

— Forced double suicide (a dark legal/social term).

無理心中の事件が起きた。

Legal/News

"無理難題"

— An impossible demand or tall order.

上司から無理難題を押し付けられた。

Neutral

"無理矢理"

— Forcibly; against one's will.

無理矢理連れて行かれた。

Neutral

"無理もない"

— It's only natural; no wonder.

疲れるのも無理もない。

Neutral

"無理を通す"

— To force one's way through.

自分の無理を通そうとする。

Neutral

"無理が利く"

— To be able to handle overwork or strain.

若いうちは無理が利く。

Neutral

"無理を売る"

— To force a sale (rarely used now).

無理を売るような商売はしない。

Old-fashioned

Leicht verwechselbar

無理をしない vs 無理 (Muri)

Can mean 'impossible' or 'overdoing it'.

In this phrase, it specifically refers to the act of pushing oneself too hard.

それは無理だ (That's impossible) vs 無理をしない (Don't overdo it).

無理をしない vs 無茶 (Mucha)

Similar meaning of 'unreasonable'.

'Mucha' implies recklessness or rashness, whereas 'Muri' is more about physical/mental strain.

無茶をしない (Don't be reckless).

無理をしない vs 無謀 (Mubou)

Means 'reckless'.

'Mubou' is used for plans that are bound to fail due to lack of foresight.

無謀な挑戦 (A reckless challenge).

無理をしない vs 強引 (Gouin)

Means 'pushy' or 'forced'.

'Gouin' is about forcing one's will on others. 'Muri' is often about forcing oneself.

強引な人 (A pushy person).

無理をしない vs 不自然 (Fushizen)

Means 'unnatural'.

'Muri' can mean 'unnatural' in a logical sense, but 'Fushizen' is purely about appearance or state.

不自然な笑顔 (An unnatural smile).

Satzmuster

[Noun] は無理をしない。

私は無理をしない。

無理をしないで [Verb]。

無理をしないで休んでください。

無理をしない [Noun] がいい。

無理をしない計画がいい。

無理をしないように [Verb]。

無理をしないように気をつけます。

無理をしないことが [Noun] だ。

無理をしないことが成功の鍵だ。

無理をしない範囲で [Verb]。

無理をしない範囲で協力します。

無理をしないという [Noun]。

無理をしないという選択。

無理をしないことを [Verb]。

無理をしないことを最優先する。

Wortfamilie

Substantive

無理 (Muri) - Impossibility/Unreasonableness

無理筋 (Murisuji) - An illogical plot or plan

Verben

無理する (Muri suru) - To overdo it

無理強いする (Murijii suru) - To force someone

Adjektive

無理な (Muri-na) - Impossible/Unreasonable

無理無理 (Murimuri) - Absolutely impossible (informal)

Verwandt

我慢 (Gaman) - Endurance

頑張る (Gambaru) - To do one's best

養生 (Youjou) - Recuperation

休養 (Kyuuyou) - Rest/Break

自愛 (Jiai) - Self-care

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frequency

Extremely frequent in daily conversation, healthcare, and workplace settings.

Häufige Fehler

Saying it to someone who isn't working hard. → Say it only to those who are clearly pushing themselves.
If you say it to someone who is lazy, it sounds like you're encouraging laziness.
Using it with 'yameru' (quit). → 'Muri o shinai' implies continuing at a slower pace.
It's about sustainability, not stopping the activity entirely.
Dropping 'o' in a business email. → '無理をしないでください'
Dropping particles is for spoken casual Japanese only.
Using it as a translation for 'Don't be a coward'. → It never means 'don't be a coward'.
It is always about physical/mental limits, never about bravery.
Confusing 'Muri o shinai' with 'Muri wa nai'. → 'Muri wa nai' means 'It's no wonder'.
They have completely different meanings despite using the same kanji.

Tipps

Use it to build rapport

Telling a colleague 'Muri o shinaide' after a long day is one of the easiest ways to show empathy and build a good relationship.

Internal Mantra

Use it as a mental check. If you feel a headache coming on, tell yourself 'Kyō wa muri o shinai' and take a break.

Particle Power

Remember that using 'wa' instead of 'o' (Muri wa shinai) makes it sound like a firm boundary: 'I definitely won't overdo it.'

Pitch Matters

Keep your pitch relatively flat. Over-emphasizing any part of the phrase can make it sound like a command rather than advice.

Permission to Rest

In Japan, people often feel guilty for resting. This phrase gives them 'permission' to stop, which is very valuable.

Email Closings

In semi-formal emails to friends or familiar colleagues, 'Muri o shinaide ne' is a warmer closing than 'Yoroshiku'.

Contrast with Gambaru

Always remember that 'Muri o shinai' is the healthy partner to 'Gambaru'. You can do both: do your best, but don't overdo it.

Softening with 'Amari'

Adding 'Amari' (not very/too much) makes it even gentler: 'Amari muri o shinaide ne.'

Listen for 'Muri-na'

Don't confuse the phrase with the adjective 'Muri-na' (impossible). 'Muri-na keikaku' is an impossible plan.

Family Use

It's a very common phrase for parents to say to children who are studying for entrance exams.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of 'Moo-Ree' (Muri). If a 'Moo'ing cow tries to climb a 'Tree' (Ree), it's 'Muri' (impossible). So 'Muri o shinai' means 'Don't be the cow trying to climb the tree!'

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a battery icon that is in the red zone. 'Muri o shinai' is the act of plugging in the charger before the battery hits 0%.

Word Web

Health Rest Limits Care Sustainable Work Study Balance

Herausforderung

Try to find one thing today that feels like 'Muri' (too much) and tell yourself 'Kyō wa muri o shinai' (I won't overdo it today). Notice how your stress level changes.

Wortherkunft

The word 'Muri' (無理) comes from Middle Chinese. 'Mu' (無) means 'without' or 'none,' and 'Ri' (理) means 'reason,' 'logic,' or 'natural law.'

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: Originally, it referred to something that was logically impossible or contrary to the laws of nature.

Sino-Japanese (Kango).

Kultureller Kontext

Be careful not to say 'Muri o shinaide' to someone who is actually struggling with a task they *want* to complete, as it might sound like you don't believe in their ability.

English speakers might say 'Take it easy' or 'Don't kill yourself,' but these can sometimes sound too casual. 'Muri o shinai' carries a specific weight of acknowledging the person's effort.

The book 'Muri o Shinai Ikikata' (A Way of Living Without Overdoing It) by various authors. Commonly heard in 'Iyashikei' (healing) anime like 'Natsume's Book of Friends'. Health PSAs during the Tokyo heatwaves.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Workplace

無理をしないで、お先に失礼します。
無理をしない範囲で進めます。
無理をしないように休憩しましょう。
無理をしない計画が必要です。

Health/Hospital

数日は無理をしないでください。
無理をしない程度に歩いて。
絶対に無理をしないように。
無理をしないことが回復への近道。

Sports/Gym

無理をしない範囲で伸ばして。
今日は無理をしないことにする。
無理をしないフォームが大事。
痛みがあるなら無理をしないで。

Relationships

無理をしない関係がいいね。
お互い無理をしないようにしよう。
無理をしないでありのままで。
無理をしない約束だよ。

Studying

無理をしない勉強法。
夜更かしして無理をしない。
無理をしない程度に頑張る。
無理をしないことが継続のコツ。

Gesprächseinstiege

"最近忙しそうだけど、無理をしていない？ (You look busy lately, are you overdoing it?)"

"無理をしない生き方について、どう思う？ (What do you think about a lifestyle without overdoing it?)"

"仕事で無理をしないために、気をつけていることはある？ (Is there anything you do to avoid overdoing it at work?)"

"無理をしない範囲で、何か手伝えることはある？ (Is there anything I can help with, within reason?)"

"「無理をしない」って、自分にとってどういう意味？ (What does 'not overdoing it' mean to you personally?)"

Tagebuch-Impulse

今日は無理をしないために、どのような工夫をしましたか？ (What did you do today to avoid overdoing it?)

過去に無理をして失敗した経験と、そこから学んだことを書いてください。 (Write about a time you overdid it and failed, and what you learned.)

あなたにとっての「無理をしない範囲」はどこまでですか？ (Where is the limit of 'not overdoing it' for you?)

「無理をしない」という言葉を誰かにかけられた時、どう感じますか？ (How do you feel when someone tells you 'don't overdo it'?)

もし社会全体が「無理をしない」ことを選んだら、世界はどう変わると思いますか？ (How would the world change if society as a whole chose not to overdo it?)

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

It can be slightly too familiar. It's better to use 'O-karada o o-taisetsu ni' (Please take care of your health) or 'O-muri oなさらないでください' (Please do not overexert yourself) to be safe.

The latter is just a casual version where the particle 'o' is dropped. It's fine for friends but avoid it in writing or formal speech.

No, it's specifically for human actions. For a machine, you'd say 'Fuka o kakenai' (Don't put a load on it).

No! It means 'don't try *too* hard.' It's about finding a sustainable pace.

'Arigatou gozaimasu' or 'Ki o tsukemasu' (I'll be careful) are perfect responses.

Yes, very often! Coaches use it to prevent injuries.

Yes, it's a way to tell them not to force themselves to act happy or to 'get over it' too quickly.

No, it's the negative form of the verb 'suru' and is written in hiragana.

'Muri o suru' (to overdo it) or 'Mucha o suru' (to be reckless).

Extremely. It's often used by friends or love interests to show they care about the protagonist's well-being.

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