無理を聞く

muri o kiku
phraseIntermediate to push oneself too hard
informal

To force oneself to do something beyond one's limits, often leading to exhaustion or health issues.

無理を聞いて勉強しすぎた

I pushed myself too hard studying.

無理を聞かないでください

Please don't push yourself too hard.

💡

This phrase is often used to express concern for someone who is overworking or overstressing themselves.

Collocations

無理を聞かないnot to push oneself too hard無理を聞いてby pushing oneself too hard

Related Phrases

無理をしないでくださいphrase
Please don't push yourself too hard
無理を聞かないようにphrase
so as not to push oneself too hard

💡Pro Tip

Cultural Context

In Japanese culture, this phrase reflects a strong emphasis on self-care and avoiding burnout, which is highly valued in both personal and professional settings.

Gold Rule

Usage in Advice

This phrase is often used when giving advice to someone who is working too hard or taking on too much responsibility.

📖Word Origin

Combination of 無理 (muri, meaning 'impossible' or 'excessive') and 聞く (kiku, meaning 'to listen' or 'to follow'). The phrase implies forcing oneself to do something beyond one's capacity.

📝Usage Notes

This phrase is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to advise someone not to overwork or overstress themselves. It can also be used reflexively to express regret for having pushed oneself too hard.

Word Breakdown

無理
impossible or excessive
root
+
particle indicating the object
particle
+
聞く
to listen or follow
verb
和英辞典