なるべく | Grammar

Structure

なるべく + [verb] なるべく + [i-adj] + [noun] なるべく + [na-adj] + な + [noun]

Standalone adverb; placed before the phrase it modifies.

Description

なるべく is an adverb meaning "as much as possible", "wherever possible", or "to the extent one can". It is used to express the idea of trying to do something to the greatest degree that circumstances allow, or of making an effort to achieve a preferred outcome.

なるべく is placed before the verb or adjective phrase it modifies, typically at or near the beginning of the clause.

。

Please come as early as possible.

。

I want to buy something as cheap as possible.

Usage nuances

Unlike できるだけ, which emphasizes pushing to the absolute limit of one's ability, なるべく has a softer nuance – it suggests doing one's best within reason, without necessarily implying extreme effort. Both are often interchangeable, but なるべく feels slightly more moderate.

。

I try to eat vegetables as much as possible.

なるべく is used when giving advice, making requests, or describing personal efforts and habits.

。

Please try not to be late as much as possible.

With negative expressions

なるべく can also be used with negative verbs to express "try not to … as much as possible."

。

I try not to drink alcohol as much as possible.

Examples

。

I will reply as soon as possible.

。

I try to exercise every day as much as possible.

。

Please be as quiet as possible.

。

I try not to spend money as much as possible.

、。

For my health, I try to walk as much as possible.

。

You should try not to eat sweets as much as possible.

。

Please attend meetings whenever possible.

。

Could you explain it using words that are as simple as possible?

、。

For the environment, I want to reduce waste as much as possible.

。

I try to cook for myself as much as possible.

。

You should try to go to bed as early as possible at night.

。

I want as many people as possible to come.

References

なるべくBunpro