想方设法 xiǎngfāng-shèfǎ to think up every possible method (idiom)
to think up every possible method (idiom); to devise ways and means; to try this, that and the other
How to remember 想方设法: 想 think about + 方 direction + 设 to build + 法 law = to think up every possible method (idiom).
Characters
How it is used
- Idiom for trying every possible method to reach a goal - 他想方设法帮我解决问题 (tā xiǎngfāng-shèfǎ bāng wǒ jiějué wèntí) he tried everything he could to help me solve the problem.
- Stresses effort and resourcefulness, usually with a positive or determined tone; often functions adverbially before the main verb.
- Near 千方百计 (qiānfāng-bǎijì), which is stronger and can carry a scheming edge; 想方设法 is more neutral/admirable.
Example sentences
- 她想方设法以一己之力完成了工作。 Tā xiǎngfāngshèfǎ yǐyījǐ zhīlì wánchéng le gōngzuò.She managed to finish the work on her own.