Translation guide
Expresses doing something to the greatest extent or degree that is feasible. In Japanese, this is most commonly conveyed with adverbs like できるだけ or なるべく, or with the pattern できる限り. The choice depends on formality and nuance.
The speaker wants to do something as much as they can, within their ability or circumstances.
The most common and neutral way to say 'as much as possible'. Literally 'as much as one can'. Suitable for both spoken and written Japanese.
Expressing an unlimited or maximum amount, often in the context of eating, drinking, or using something.
できるだけ is more direct and implies making an effort to maximize something. なるべく is softer, often used when asking someone to do something if it's not too much trouble. In requests, なるべく can sound more polite because it acknowledges the other person's circumstances.
できるだけ早く来てください。
Please come as early as you can (make an effort).
なるべく早く来てください。
Please come as early as possible (if you can).
できるだけ早く来てください。
Please come as early as possible.
できるだけ多くの人に会いたい。
I want to meet as many people as possible.
Similar to できるだけ, but slightly more casual and often used in spoken Japanese. Implies 'if possible' or 'as much as circumstances allow'.
なるべく静かにしてください。
Please be as quiet as possible.
More formal and emphatic than できるだけ. Often used in written language or formal speech. Literally 'to the limit of one's ability'.
できる限りの努力をします。
I will make every possible effort.
Very formal, often used in official documents or business contexts. Means 'as far as possible' or 'to the extent possible'.
可能な限り早急に対応いたします。
We will respond as soon as possible.
Means 'to one's heart's content' or 'as much as one likes'. Used when someone can do something without restraint.
思う存分楽しんでください。
Please enjoy yourself as much as you like.
Casual expression meaning 'as much as you like'. Often used with food or activities.
好きなだけ食べていいよ。
You can eat as much as you want.