力不从心 powerless
Explanation
形容心里想做，可是力量不够。
Describes that one wants to do something in one's heart, but does not have the strength to do so.
Origin Story
东汉时期，年迈的班超在西域戍边多年，屡立战功，但他年事已高，体力不支，多次上书朝廷请求回朝养老。班昭也上书为兄求情，说班超年老体弱，力不从心，难以承担边疆重任。汉和帝念及班超的功劳，最终准许他班师回朝。班超戎马一生，为国征战，晚年虽力不从心，但其忠诚和爱国之心，令人敬佩。这段历史也成为了“力不从心”的最佳诠释，它不仅体现了年老体衰的无奈，更彰显了忠心耿耿的赤诚。
During the Eastern Han Dynasty, the aged Ban Chao served for many years on the western frontier, repeatedly achieving military merit. However, in his old age, he suffered from physical weakness and repeatedly submitted petitions to the court requesting retirement. Ban Zhao also submitted a petition on behalf of her brother, saying that Ban Chao was old and weak and could not bear the heavy burden on the frontier. Emperor Han He, knowing Ban Chao's merits, finally granted his request to return home. Ban Chao spent his life at war, fighting for his country. Although weak in his later years, his loyalty and patriotism impressed the people. This story is the best interpretation of "力不从心". It not only reflects the helplessness of old age and physical weakness, but also demonstrates sincere loyalty.
Usage
常用作谓语、宾语；用于谦词。多用于表达自己能力不足，无法胜任某事。
Often used as a predicate and object; used in modest expressions. Often used to express that one lacks the ability to handle a particular matter.
Examples
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他年纪大了，力不从心，很多事情都做不了了。
tā niánjì dà le, lì bù cóng xīn, hěn duō shìqing dōu zuò bu liǎo le.
He is too old and can't do much anymore.
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虽然他想帮忙，但力不从心，只能看着我们完成任务。
suīrán tā xiǎng bāngmáng, dàn lì bù cóng xīn, zhǐ néng kànzhe wǒmen wánchéng rènwu.
Though he wanted to help, he was powerless and could only watch us finish the task.