as far as one's capabilities extend (idiom); to the best of one's ability
HSK 7, i, rank #14637, Hard
力所能及
lìsuǒnéngjí
within one's powers
HSK 7, i, rank #14637, Hard
lìsuǒnéngjí(li4suo3neng2ji2) T4
1as far as one's capabilities extend (idiom); to the best of one's ability
2within one's powers
Listen to the audio pronunciation 3 times to gain XP
March 24, 2026
力所能及lìsuǒnéngjí(li4suo3neng2ji2)
The idiom 力所能及 (lì suǒ néng jí) refers to doing something to the best of one's ability or within one's capabilities. It emphasizes the limitations of one's power or resources, indicating that one should act according to what is feasible for them.
Frequency#14637DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, there is a strong emphasis on humility and recognizing one's limits. The idiom reflects the cultural value of knowing when to admit one's capabilities and when to seek help from others.
Memory Tip
Imagine a person lifting weights (力) that are just within their ability (所能) to lift without straining (及). This visual of a determined individual pushing their limits can help you remember that this phrase is about acting within one's capacities.
Meanings of 力所能及
lìsuǒnéngjí(li4suo3neng2ji2)
1as far as one's capabilities extend (idiom); to the best of one's ability
2within one's powers
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 力所能及
力所能及Simplified
—Strokes
—Radical
成语chéngyǔidiom (id.)Part of Speech
#14637Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 力所能及
Podcast: 力所能及
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 力所能及
Quick Contrast
能力所及 (nénglì suǒ jí) — choose 力所能及 when emphasizing the limits of one's effort rather than just ability.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a person lifting weights (力) that are just within their ability (所能) to lift without straining (及). This visual of a determined individual pushing their limits can help you remember that this phrase is about acting within one's capacities.
Usage Notes
This idiom is often used in both formal and informal contexts when discussing efforts or contributions. A common mistake is to use it in an absolute sense; remember that it implies a personal limitation rather than a universal standard.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK 6 idiom, 力所能及 connects with other expressions related to capability and effort. Students should focus on understanding how to use it in context and to distinguish it from similar idioms that imply different levels of ability.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, there is a strong emphasis on humility and recognizing one's limits. The idiom reflects the cultural value of knowing when to admit one's capabilities and when to seek help from others.
Common Mistakes
Learners often mistakenly use 力所能及 in situations where they mean to express ambition rather than limitation. For instance, saying 'I will do everything 力所能及' should be corrected to 'I will do everything I can.'
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 力所能及
Premium — Locked
AI tone practice
Pro
Drill the tone of 力所能及 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 力所能及 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Write correctly 3 times to earn XP
Cultural Notes for 力所能及
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, there is a strong emphasis on humility and recognizing one's limits. The idiom reflects the cultural value of knowing when to admit one's capabilities and when to seek help from others.
🌏Cross-cultural Insight
In Western cultures, there is often a focus on maximizing potential, while in Chinese culture, acknowledging one's limitations is equally important.
Frequently Asked Questions about 力所能及
Yes, it is appropriate to use this idiom in business discussions to indicate what you can realistically accomplish.
No, it can be used positively to express realistic expectations and effort.
