HSK 7-9
极力
jílì
With all one's strength; to the best of one's ability
Structure
Subject + 极力 + Verb / Verb Phrase
How it works
The adverb '极力' (jílì) is used to indicate that someone is doing something with their utmost effort or to the best of their ability. It is often used in formal contexts or professional settings to describe an intense attempt to achieve a goal, persuade someone, or avoid a negative outcome.
Examples
他极力推荐他的同事去参加那个国际会议。
Tā jílì tuījiàn tā de tóngshì qù cānjiā nàge guójì huìyì.
He strongly recommended his colleague to attend that international conference.
辩方律师在法庭上极力为被告辩护。
Biànfāng lǜshī zài fǎtíng shang jílì wèi bèigào biànhù.
The defense lawyer did his utmost to defend the accused in court.
面对媒体的质疑，他极力否认自己参与了此事。
Miànduì méitǐ de zhìyí, tā jílì fǒurèn zìjǐ cānyùle cǐshì.
Faced with media questioning, he strenuously denied his involvement in the matter.
Common mistakes
Do not confuse '极力' (jílì) with '努力' (nǔlì); while '努力' is a general term for 'hardworking' or 'making an effort,' '极力' specifically emphasizes the maximum intensity of an action, often meaning 'to do everything in one's power' to influence a specific result.
Tip
Think of '极力' as 'extreme effort' applied to a specific verb. It is most commonly paired with verbs of communication or intention, such as 推荐 (recommend), 赞扬 (praise), 否认 (deny), or 避免 (avoid).
More HSK 7-9 grammar
See 极力 in real Chinese
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