How to Say ‘To push oneself / to overdo it’ in Japanese
無理する
muri suru
[moo-ree soo-roo]
💬 Usage Tip: Verb meaning “to overdo it.” Common negative advice: [無理しないでください。] (Please don’t overdo it.)
🇯🇵 In Japan: Work culture can make people push through symptoms; doctors may specifically remind patients not to [無理する] during monitoring periods.
Phrase Breakdown
無理
muri
[moo-ree]
overdoing; strain
Refers to “strain/overexertion.” With する it becomes “to overdo it.”
検査結果が良くても無理はしないでください。
Even if the test results are good, please don’t overdo it.
する
suru
[soo-roo]
to do
Verb meaning “to do.” When attached to a noun like 無理, it creates a verb: 無理する = to push oneself/overexert.
痛みがあるのに運動すると無理することになります。
If you exercise despite pain, you’ll be overdoing it.
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Custom Scenarios
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
Get Full LessonWhat Learners Are Saying
“Teaching in Osaka and I wanted to connect with my students beyond the classroom. The everyday conversation scenarios made my Japanese feel natural, not textbook-y.”
Mia S., 25, English Teacher
“Moved to Tokyo and the polite vs. casual speech levels were killing me. This app breaks it all down with real scenarios. My coworkers noticed the difference in weeks.”
Kevin Z., 31, Game Developer
“I tried five different apps before this one. The roleplay conversations are what finally made things click. I actually remember what I learn now.”
Sofia R., 31, Marketing Manager