B2 Expression Neutral 10 min read

全力以赴

quán lì yǐ fù

Go all out; spare no effort

Literally: Full strength with all effort

In 15 Seconds

  • Give 100% effort.
  • Total commitment to a task.
  • Use for important challenges.
  • Avoid for trivial matters.

Meaning

This phrase means putting your absolute maximum effort into something. It's about dedicating all your energy and focus, holding nothing back. Think of it as giving it your all, with total commitment and passion.

Key Examples

3 of 11
1

Texting a friend about a tough exam

这次考试我一定要全力以赴!

I must go all out for this exam!

2

Job interview on Zoom

请相信我,我会为贵公司全力以赴。

Please believe me, I will give my all for your company.

<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>
3

Instagram caption for a marathon runner

终点线就在前方,我将全力以赴!#马拉松 #永不放弃

The finish line is just ahead, I will go all out! #Marathon #NeverGiveUp

<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M4.318 6.318a4.5 4.5 0 000 6.364L12 20.364l7.682-7.682a4.5 4.5 0 00-6.364-6.364L12 7.636l-1.318-1.318a4.5 4.5 0 00-6.364 0z"/></svg>
🌍

Cultural Background

This idiom stems from ancient Chinese philosophy emphasizing diligence and unwavering commitment. It reflects a deep-seated cultural value placed on putting forth one's absolute best effort, especially in the face of challenges or important tasks. This idea is tied to Confucian values of self-cultivation and achieving one's potential through sincere effort. It's about honor and integrity in one's actions.

💡

The Intensity Factor

Think of `全力以赴` as a full-throttle engine start, not just cruising. It implies using all available power and resources.

🎯

Show, Don't Just Tell

When you say you'll `全力以赴`, follow up with actions that prove it. Your actions speak louder than this powerful phrase!

In 15 Seconds

  • Give 100% effort.
  • Total commitment to a task.
  • Use for important challenges.
  • Avoid for trivial matters.

What It Means

This is about giving 100%. You're not holding back any energy. It implies a complete dedication to the task at hand. It’s more than just trying hard; it's about exhausting all your capabilities. The vibe is intense, serious, and determined. It’s the feeling you get before a big exam or a crucial competition. You’ve prepared, and now it’s time to unleash everything. It's the ultimate commitment to achieving a goal. It suggests a lack of reservation. You’re all in, no regrets. It’s a powerful statement of intent. It really emphasizes the *completeness* of your effort. Think of it as a full-throttle approach. You’re not coasting; you’re sprinting. It’s about pushing your limits. This phrase carries a lot of weight. It’s not used lightly. It signifies a moment of truth. A time for ultimate exertion. You’re leaving it all on the field. It’s a commitment to excellence. A promise of maximum output. It’s the opposite of slacking off. It’s the peak of your performance. It’s about seeing something through. With every ounce of your being. It’s a testament to your dedication. It’s about facing challenges head-on. With unwavering resolve. It’s the spirit of champions. Giving your absolute best.

How To Use It

Use 全力以赴 when you want to describe a situation requiring maximum effort. It fits perfectly when talking about exams, sports, or important projects. You can say you will 全力以赴 to a task. Or describe someone else doing it. It’s versatile for both personal and professional contexts. For example, "I will 全力以赴 for this presentation." Or, "The team 全力以赴 to meet the deadline." It’s a strong declaration. It shows you understand the stakes. You’re ready to invest everything. It conveys seriousness and dedication. It’s a great way to motivate yourself. Or to show respect for a challenge. It’s like telling someone, "Watch this, I'm going for gold!" It’s a statement of full engagement. It’s not just about working hard. It’s about working *smart* and *hard*. With all your mental and physical power. It’s a commitment to the process. And to the outcome. It’s the feeling of being completely absorbed. In achieving a specific objective. It’s a powerful idiom. Use it to make a strong impression. It signifies your readiness. To overcome any obstacle. By bringing your A-game. And then some. It’s about leaving no stone unturned. In your pursuit of success. It’s a complete immersion. In the task at hand. It’s the ultimate effort.

Formality & Register

全力以赴 is quite flexible. It can be used in formal settings. Like business meetings or academic discussions. It also works in casual conversations. Talking with friends about a hobby. Or a challenge you're facing. It’s generally neutral to slightly formal. But its intensity makes it impactful. In formal contexts, it sounds professional. It shows you’re serious about your work. In casual settings, it adds emphasis. It makes your commitment clear. It’s not slang, but it’s not stuffy either. It’s a well-respected idiom. It sounds more sophisticated than just "try hard." It adds a certain gravitas. It’s like saying "I'm going to give this my all." But with more flair. It’s appropriate for speeches. Or motivational talks. It’s also good for written communication. Like emails or reports. Just make sure the context warrants such effort. Overusing it might seem dramatic. But when used correctly, it shines. It’s a phrase with presence. It commands attention. It’s a sign of a dedicated individual. Ready to tackle any challenge. With full force. It conveys a strong sense of purpose. And unwavering determination. It's a phrase that means business.

Real-Life Examples

Imagine a student preparing for the Gaokao (college entrance exam). They might tell their parents, "I will 全力以赴 this year." A marathon runner before a race could say, "I’m going to run 全力以赴." A startup team launching a new product might say, "We need to 全力以赴 to make this a success." A gamer aiming for the top rank in a competitive game. They'd say, "I’m going to 全力以赴 to get to the top." A chef trying a complex new recipe. They might think, "I must 全力以赴 to get this perfect." Even someone learning a new skill, like coding. They might say, "I’m studying 全力以赴 to master it." It’s about that moment of intense focus. When you’re giving it your absolute best shot. It's the feeling of giving it your all. No holding back. Every effort counts. It’s a universal concept. The drive to succeed. By pushing your own boundaries. It’s about commitment. And execution. It’s the spirit of maximum effort. Applied to any endeavor. It’s a powerful expression. Of human drive.

When To Use It

Use 全力以赴 when the situation demands your absolute best. Think of high-stakes events. Like major exams, job interviews, or crucial competitions. It's perfect for expressing commitment to a challenging goal. When you want to show you're taking something very seriously. It’s great for motivational speeches. Or pep talks to yourself or others. Use it when you're about to embark on a difficult task. And you want to convey your full dedication. It’s appropriate when you need to impress. With your work ethic and determination. For instance, in a business proposal. Or a personal statement for an application. It signifies a readiness to overcome obstacles. By investing maximum effort. It’s about leaving nothing to chance. By giving it everything you've got. It’s the ultimate expression of commitment. When only the best will do. It’s a powerful way to communicate. Your level of dedication. It’s perfect for moments of truth. Where your full potential is required. It’s a promise of maximum effort. Delivered with conviction.

When NOT To Use It

Avoid 全力以赴 for trivial matters. Don't say you're going 全力以赴 to make toast. Or to watch a TV show. It sounds overly dramatic and insincere. It's not for everyday, low-effort activities. Using it for simple tasks diminishes its impact. It can make you seem arrogant. Or out of touch with reality. Don't use it when you're already at your limit. Or when the task is impossible. It implies you *can* give more. If you're already exhausted, it's not applicable. Also, avoid it if you're being lazy. Or procrastinating. It’s meant for genuine, maximum effort. It’s not a joke, unless clearly intended. Don't use it in a passive-aggressive way. Like "Fine, I'll 全力以赴, but you're not helping." It's meant to be positive. It’s about genuine commitment. Not forced compliance. It’s not for situations where luck is the main factor. Or where minimal effort is expected. It implies active exertion. Not passive hoping. Save it for when it truly counts. For moments that require your best.

Common Mistakes

Many learners confuse 全力以赴 with simply "trying hard." It’s much stronger than that. Another common error is using it for mundane tasks. This makes the phrase lose its power. Overuse is also a problem. Using it too often dilutes its meaning. Sometimes people use it when they mean "to do their best." But 全力以赴 is about *all* your effort, not just the best you can manage at that moment. It implies a sustained, total commitment. It's not just a fleeting effort. It's about going the extra mile. And then another mile after that. It’s the difference between a sprint and a marathon. 全力以赴 is the marathon. It's a sustained burst of energy. It's about pushing your limits. To the absolute edge. And maybe a little beyond. It’s a commitment to excellence. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about giving your absolute all. To achieve the best possible outcome. It’s a powerful declaration. Of intent and action. It’s about dedication. And perseverance.

Common Variations

While 全力以赴 is the standard, context can subtly shift its feel. In very casual chats, friends might shorten it. Or use a more colloquial phrase. For example, "我拼了" (wǒ pīn le) means "I'm going all out / I'm going for it." It’s more impulsive. "豁出去了" (huō chū qù le) is similar. It means "I'm going to risk it / go all out." It implies throwing caution to the wind. These are more spontaneous. 全力以赴 is more planned and deliberate. Sometimes, people might say "尽力而为" (jìn lì ér wéi). This means "do your best." It’s less intense than 全力以赴. It’s more about trying within your capabilities. 全力以赴 suggests exceeding them. Or at least attempting to. Think of it like this: 全力以赴 is a full-blown assault. "尽力而为" is a determined effort. The others are more like a desperate gamble. Or a sudden surge of adrenaline. The choice depends on the situation. And the desired tone. 全力以赴 remains the most formal and complete. It’s the gold standard for maximum effort.

Real Conversations

Friend A: 这个项目很难,我们怎么办? (Zhège xiàngmù hěn nán, wǒmen zěnme bàn?) - This project is really tough, what should we do?

Friend B: 别担心!我们必须 全力以赴! (Bié dānxīn! Wǒmen bìxū quán lì yǐ fù!) - Don't worry! We must go all out!

Colleague 1: 明天的演示很重要,你准备好了吗? (Míngtiān de yǎnshì hěn zhòngyào, nǐ zhǔnbèi hǎo le ma?) - Tomorrow's presentation is very important, are you ready?

Colleague 2: 是的,我昨晚熬夜准备了,明天会 全力以赴! (Shì de, wǒ zuó wǎn áoyè zhǔnbèi le, míngtiān huì quán lì yǐ fù!) - Yes, I stayed up all night preparing, I'll give it my all tomorrow!

Quick FAQ

Q. Is 全力以赴 always serious?

A. Mostly, yes. Its intensity suits serious or challenging situations. It implies a significant effort is required. You wouldn't use it for casual activities.

Q. Can I use it for myself?

A. Absolutely! Saying "我要全力以赴" (Wǒ yào quán lì yǐ fù) shows your own commitment. It's a great personal motto.

Q. Is it formal or informal?

A. It's quite versatile. It works in formal business settings. And also in casual conversations. It adds emphasis wherever used.

Q. What's the opposite?

A. There isn't one single opposite. But phrases like "敷衍了事" (fū yǎn liǎo shì - to do things half-heartedly) are contrary. Or simply "不努力" (bù nǔ lì - not trying hard).

Q. When did it become popular?

A. It's an older idiom, rooted in classical Chinese. Its meaning of total effort has always been valued. It reflects a cultural emphasis on diligence. And commitment to tasks. It’s been around for centuries. Its core meaning hasn't changed much. It remains a powerful statement. Of dedication and hard work. It's a timeless expression. Of human resolve. And the pursuit of excellence. It’s deeply ingrained in the culture. As a virtue to be admired. It speaks to the spirit of perseverance. And the drive to achieve. It's a fundamental part of the language. Reflecting historical values. On effort and accomplishment. It’s a testament to hard work. And dedication.

Usage Notes

This is a powerful idiom signifying maximum effort, suitable for important tasks or challenges. While versatile, avoid using it for trivial matters, as it can sound overly dramatic or insincere. Its intensity makes it impactful in both professional and personal contexts when genuine commitment is required.

💡

The Intensity Factor

Think of `全力以赴` as a full-throttle engine start, not just cruising. It implies using all available power and resources.

🎯

Show, Don't Just Tell

When you say you'll `全力以赴`, follow up with actions that prove it. Your actions speak louder than this powerful phrase!

⚠️

The Triviality Trap

Using `全力以赴` for mundane tasks like making tea is a common beginner mistake. It sounds ridiculous and undermines the phrase's impact.

💬

The Virtue of Effort

In Chinese culture, sincere and maximum effort is highly respected. Using `全力以赴` shows you understand and value this cultural trait.

Examples

11
#1 Texting a friend about a tough exam

这次考试我一定要全力以赴!

I must go all out for this exam!

Expressing strong personal commitment to a difficult academic challenge.

#2 Job interview on Zoom
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

请相信我,我会为贵公司全力以赴。

Please believe me, I will give my all for your company.

Professional promise of dedication and hard work to a potential employer.

#3 Instagram caption for a marathon runner
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M4.318 6.318a4.5 4.5 0 000 6.364L12 20.364l7.682-7.682a4.5 4.5 0 00-6.364-6.364L12 7.636l-1.318-1.318a4.5 4.5 0 00-6.364 0z"/></svg>

终点线就在前方,我将全力以赴!#马拉松 #永不放弃

The finish line is just ahead, I will go all out! #Marathon #NeverGiveUp

Enthusiastic declaration of maximum effort during a strenuous physical activity.

#4 Discussing a team project deadline
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

为了按时完成,我们得全力以赴。

To finish on time, we have to go all out.

Emphasizing the need for collective maximum effort to meet a critical deadline.

#5 Casual chat with a friend about a hobby
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

我最近在学吉他,真是全力以赴啊!

I've been learning guitar lately, I'm really giving it my all!

Expressing intense dedication to a personal interest or hobby.

#6 Vlogger preparing for a big trip

这次旅行vlog我一定要全力以赴,拍出最好的内容!

I'm going to go all out for this travel vlog, produce the best content!

Commitment to producing high-quality content for a significant creative project.

#7 Mistake: Using for a simple task
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✗ 我要全力以赴去买杯咖啡。 → ✓ 我要去买杯咖啡。

✗ I will go all out to buy a cup of coffee. → ✓ I'm going to buy a cup of coffee.

Incorrectly applying the phrase to a trivial, everyday action.

#8 Mistake: Overstating effort
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

✗ 昨天我全力以赴地睡了十个小时。 → ✓ 昨天我睡了十个小时。

✗ Yesterday I went all out sleeping for ten hours. → ✓ Yesterday I slept for ten hours.

Using the phrase for passive activities where 'maximum effort' doesn't apply.

#9 Encouraging a friend facing a challenge
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

别怕,你一定能行!放手去全力以赴吧!

Don't be afraid, you can definitely do it! Go ahead and give it your all!

Offering encouragement by urging someone to commit their full energy.

#10 Gaming context

为了赢得这场比赛,我必须全力以赴!

To win this match, I must give it my all!

Describing the intense focus and effort required in competitive gaming.

#11 Chef describing a complex dish preparation
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

这道菜需要精湛的技巧,我必须全力以赴。

This dish requires exquisite skill, I must spare no effort.

Highlighting the need for meticulous attention and maximum skill in a culinary task.

Test Yourself

Fill in the blank with the correct phrase.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 全力以赴

The sentence implies a high level of commitment is needed for an important project, making `全力以赴` the most suitable choice.

Choose the sentence that uses `全力以赴` correctly.

Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: A

Option A correctly applies `全力以赴` to the serious task of studying. Options B, C, and D use it inappropriately for passive or trivial actions.

Find and fix the error in the sentence.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:

While `全力以赴地` is grammatically possible, it's more natural and common to use `全力以赴` directly as an adverbial phrase or just `全力以赴` when describing an action like practicing.

Translate this sentence.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:

This translation accurately conveys the meaning of giving maximum effort in response to a significant challenge.

🎉 Score: /4

Visual Learning Aids

Formality Spectrum of 全力以赴

Very Casual

Rarely used, might sound overly dramatic.

我全力以赴地在沙发上躺着。

Casual

Used among friends for exciting challenges or intense hobbies.

这次游戏比赛我要全力以赴!

Neutral

Commonly used in most situations, balancing seriousness and approachability.

为了通过考试,我必须全力以赴。

Formal

Appropriate for professional settings, emphasizing commitment.

我们将为这个项目全力以赴。

Very Formal

Could be used in official speeches or declarations.

国家将全力以赴保卫边疆。

When to Use 全力以赴

Maximum Effort
📚

Academic Exams

高考前,学生们都全力以赴。

🏅

Sports Competitions

决赛中,运动员全力以赴。

💼

Job Interviews

面试时,我会全力以赴展示我的能力。

🏗️

Challenging Projects

这个项目很难,我们必须全力以赴。

🎯

Personal Goals

为了学好中文,我全力以赴。

Critical Deadlines

我们必须全力以赴才能按时完成。

全力以赴 vs. Related Phrases

全力以赴 (Quán lì yǐ fù)
全力以赴 Go all out; spare no effort
尽力而为 (Jìn lì ér wéi)
尽力而为 Do one's best; try one's hardest
豁出去 (Huō chū qù)
豁出去 Go for broke; risk it all

Usage Contexts for 全力以赴

🏢

Workplace

  • Project completion
  • Job applications
  • Sales targets
🎓

Academics

  • Exams
  • Thesis writing
  • Research projects
❤️

Personal Life

  • Fitness goals
  • Learning new skills
  • Overcoming challenges

Sports

  • Training
  • Competitions
  • Championships

Practice Bank

4 exercises
Fill in the blank with the correct phrase. Fill Blank beginner

为了这次重要的项目,我们必须 ______。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 全力以赴

The sentence implies a high level of commitment is needed for an important project, making `全力以赴` the most suitable choice.

Choose the sentence that uses `全力以赴` correctly. Choose intermediate

Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: A

Option A correctly applies `全力以赴` to the serious task of studying. Options B, C, and D use it inappropriately for passive or trivial actions.

Find and fix the error in the sentence. Error Fix intermediate

Find and fix the mistake:

他为了赢得比赛,昨天全力以赴地练习了。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 他为了赢得比赛,昨天全力以赴地练习了。

While `全力以赴地` is grammatically possible, it's more natural and common to use `全力以赴` directly as an adverbial phrase or just `全力以赴` when describing an action like practicing.

Translate this sentence. Translate advanced

面对挑战,我们必须全力以赴。

Hints: Consider the intensity of 'challenge'., 'Go all out' captures the meaning well.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: Facing the challenge, we must go all out.

This translation accurately conveys the meaning of giving maximum effort in response to a significant challenge.

🎉 Score: /4

Frequently Asked Questions

18 questions

全力以赴 means to exert your absolute maximum effort towards a goal. It's about dedicating all your energy, focus, and resources without holding anything back. Think of it as giving 100% or going all out.

No, it's generally not used for everyday, low-effort tasks like eating or walking. The phrase implies a significant challenge or important objective that requires considerable energy and commitment. Using it for trivial things would sound overly dramatic or insincere.

Yes, 全力以赴 is perfectly suitable for written communication. It's often used in formal contexts like business proposals, academic essays, or official statements to convey a strong sense of dedication and commitment to a task or goal.

You should use 全力以赴 when facing a major challenge, competition, important project, or critical deadline. It's appropriate when you want to express or describe a situation where maximum effort is necessary and being applied.

全力以赴 implies using *all* your strength and resources, potentially pushing beyond your perceived limits. 'Try my best' (尽力而为) suggests doing what you are capable of, within your normal limits. 全力以赴 is more intense and absolute.

It's quite versatile. It can be used in formal settings like business meetings or speeches, sounding professional and serious. It also works well in casual conversations among friends when discussing a challenging endeavor, adding emphasis and passion.

In formal settings, it conveys professionalism and dedication. In casual settings, it adds a sense of excitement and commitment to a shared challenge or personal goal. The intensity of the phrase itself lends weight, so context is key.

The core meaning of 全力以赴 is consistent across Mandarin-speaking regions. However, more colloquial or regional expressions might be used in very informal settings, but this standard phrase is universally understood and accepted.

Similar phrases include '拼尽全力' (pīn jìn quán lì - exert all one's strength) and '竭尽所能' (jié jìn suǒ néng - do everything one can). These also convey maximum effort but might have slightly different nuances in intensity or context.

A more casual, impulsive variation might be '豁出去' (huō chū qù), meaning 'to go for broke' or 'risk it all'. While it involves high effort, it often carries a connotation of recklessness or desperation that 全力以赴 doesn't necessarily have.

It reflects a deep cultural value in East Asian societies that emphasizes diligence, perseverance, and unwavering commitment. Putting forth maximum effort is seen as a virtue and a sign of respect for the task and oneself.

The concept aligns with historical ideals of dedication found in classical Chinese literature and philosophy, valuing sincerity and hard work. While not tied to one specific event, it embodies a timeless cultural ethos of striving for excellence through complete effort.

A frequent mistake is using 全力以赴 for simple, non-challenging activities. For instance, saying 'I'm going to 全力以赴 watch TV' sounds absurd because watching TV doesn't require maximum effort.

Another error is confusing it with simply 'doing one's best.' While related, 全力以赴 implies a more extreme, all-consuming effort, often pushing limits, whereas 'doing one's best' can be a more standard, sustainable level of effort.

Yes, 全力以赴 implies both physical and mental exertion. It suggests a holistic commitment, involving not just hard work but also focus, strategic thinking, and emotional investment in achieving the objective.

Working hard is general effort. 全力以赴 is *maximum* effort, the highest level you can possibly muster. It's the difference between a strong push and the ultimate heave.

Yes, it can be used ironically, especially by native speakers, often in humorous self-deprecation. For example, saying 'I'll 全力以赴 finish this bag of chips' uses the phrase hyperbolically for comedic effect.

There isn't a single perfect antonym. However, phrases like '敷衍了事' (fū yǎn liǎo shì - to do things superficially/half-heartedly) or '得过且过' (dé guò qiě guò - to muddle along/let things slide) represent the opposite attitude of minimal or careless effort.

Related Phrases

🔗

尽力而为

related topic

Do one's best; try one's hardest

This phrase also refers to effort, but it implies doing what you are capable of, whereas `全力以赴` suggests pushing beyond limits.

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拼尽全力

synonym

Exert all one's strength

This is a very close synonym, emphasizing the exhaustion of physical or mental strength to achieve a goal.

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竭尽所能

synonym

Do everything one can; use all one's abilities

Similar to `全力以赴`, this phrase emphasizes utilizing all available resources and abilities to the fullest extent possible.

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豁出去

related topic

Go for broke; risk it all

While both involve high effort, `豁出去` carries a stronger sense of risk-taking and desperation, often implying a 'do or die' situation.

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敷衍了事

antonym

Do things half-heartedly; perfunctory

This phrase describes the opposite attitude, indicating a lack of effort and care, directly contrasting with the total commitment of `全力以赴`.

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马马虎虎

antonym

So-so; careless; casual

This describes a casual or careless attitude towards tasks, which is the antithesis of the intense, focused effort signified by `全力以赴`.

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