1To think something through and come up with a good method or solution to a problem or task.
少ない材料で美味しく作れるよう工夫した。
I devised a way to make it delicious with limited ingredients.
覚えやすいように語呂合わせを工夫して勉強した。
I came up with a mnemonic to make things easier to remember while studying.
限られた予算内で最大の効果が出るよう工夫を重ねた。
I repeatedly devised ways to get the maximum effect within a limited budget.
通勤時間を有効に使う工夫をしている。
I'm figuring out ways to make effective use of my commute time.
2A device, idea, or design that results from ingenuity — the concrete product of figuring something out.
この道具にはいろいろな工夫が凝らされている。
A lot of clever design has gone into this tool.
傘の持ち手には濡れにくい工夫が施されている。
The umbrella's handle has a design feature that keeps it from getting wet easily.
節水のための工夫が住宅にたくさん取り入れられている。
Many water-saving design features have been incorporated into the house.
3In Zen Buddhism, dedicating oneself to spiritual training — such as zazen meditation — in pursuit of enlightenment.
老師は弟子たちに日々の工夫を怠らぬよう説いた。
The Zen master taught his disciples not to neglect their daily spiritual discipline.