力所能及 lìsuǒnéngjí as far as one's capabilities extend (idiom)
as far as one's capabilities extend (idiom); to the best of one's ability; within one's powers
How to remember 力所能及: 力 power + 所 place + 能 able to + 及 reach = as far as one's capabilities extend (idiom).
Characters
How it is used
- Within one's power/ability - 做一些力所能及的事 (zuò yìxiē lìsuǒnéngjí de shì) do what one can manage.
- Marks help or contribution as modest and within reach; often self-deprecating or reassuring.
- Opposite of 力不从心; use it to offer feasible help - 感到力不从心 (gǎndào lìbù-cóngxīn) feel out of one's depth.
Example sentences
- 给予汤姆一些你力所能及的帮助。 Jǐyǔ tāngmǔ yīxiē nǐ lìsuǒnéngjí de bāngzhù.Give Tom any help you can.