Origin

The character 勉 combines "strength" or "power" (力) with a sound component (免) that hints at the pronunciation. The 力 radical suggests the physical or mental effort needed, while 免 provides a rough phonetic guide. Together they create a character meaning to exert oneself or work diligently — the idea that real effort requires applying your power and strength toward a goal. Over time this visual pairing came to represent the broader sense of striving, encouragement, and diligence that the character carries today.

AI-generated (claude-haiku-4-5), not yet reviewed. Formation type (automated guess): Phono-semantic (meaning + sound hint).