努力 (nǔ lì) literally combines 努 (to exert oneself) and 力 (strength or effort), forming a compound verb meaning 'to strive' or 'to work hard'. It emphasizes purposeful, sustained effort toward a goal—often academic, professional, or personal. Unlike casual effort, 努力 implies determination and perseverance, especially when facing difficulty.

This word is commonly used in encouragement ('You must 努力!'), self-reflection ('I need to 努力 more'), or descriptions of achievement ('She succeeded because she 努力ed'). It can function as a verb (e.g., 努力学习) or as a noun meaning 'effort' (e.g., 付出努力). While it carries positive connotations, overuse without context may sound generic or overly earnest—native speakers often pair it with specific verbs (e.g., 努力复习, 努力练习) to add clarity and naturalness.