expression, adverb
voluntarily; on one's own initiative; by choice
Emphasizes that the action is taken willingly, without being asked or forced. Often used when someone steps forward or does something proactively.
彼は自ら進んでその仕事を引き受けた。
He voluntarily took on that task.
自ら進んで手伝いましょうか？
Shall I help you of my own accord?
Also means 'on one's own initiative,' but is more casual and can be used in a wider range of situations. 自ら進んで sounds more formal and emphasizes the voluntary, proactive nature of the action.
Means 'willingly' or 'eagerly,' but lacks the explicit 'self' nuance of 自ら. 自ら進んで combines both the idea of 'oneself' and 'willingly.'
Compound of 自ら (oneself) and the adverbial form of 進む (to advance, to proceed), literally 'advancing by oneself.'