力
Meanings
physical strength; force; energy
Refers to physical power, muscular strength, or the force exerted by something. Common in phrases like 力がある (strong) and 力を入れる (put effort/strength into).
He is physically strong.
Please push harder (put more strength into it).
ability; capability; proficiency
Refers to one's skill, competence, or capacity to do something. Often used with ～する力 (the ability to do ~) or 力をつける (to build up one's ability).
I want to improve my English ability.
He has the capability to handle this job.
Describes the power or effectiveness of something to produce a result, such as medicine, words, or actions. Often used in set phrases like 力を発揮する (demonstrate effectiveness).
This medicine has strong efficacy.
I believe in the power of words.
Refers to the effort or energy one puts into doing something. Common in expressions like 力を尽くす (do one's utmost) and 力仕事 (manual labor).
Let's work together (combine our efforts) to solve the problem.
He ran with all his might.
Refers to social, political, or organizational power, authority, or influence. Often used in contexts like 力を持つ (hold power) or 力関係 (power dynamics).
He has a lot of power in the company.
Change society through political power.
Used especially in the phrase 力になる (to be of help/support). Implies providing strength or assistance to someone.
See also: 力になる
I'll always be there to help when you're in trouble.
Your words gave me strength (were a support).
Refers to putting emphasis or stress on a point, word, or action. Often used in phrases like 力を入れる (put emphasis on) or 力点 (emphasis point).
This plan puts emphasis on environmental protection.
He spoke with emphasis on that point.
Refers to the financial or material resources, or the means to accomplish something. Often used in set phrases like 力の及ぶ限り (to the best of one's resources/ability).
I will help to the best of my ability/resources.
He started the company with his own resources.
Usage patterns
- 〈事〉に力を尽くすto devote all one's effort to something
He devoted all his effort to the recovery.
- 力を合わせるto join forces; to combine efforts
We solved the problem by joining forces.
- 〈人〉に力を貸すto lend someone a hand; to help someone
I lent a hand to my friend who was in trouble.
- 力を発揮するto demonstrate one's ability or effectiveness
He showed his true ability in the match.
- 力があるto be strong; to have ability
This rope is strong, so it won't break.
- 力を持つto hold power or influence
That company holds great power in the industry.
Expressions· 30
- 力一杯with all one's strength; as hard as one can
- 力を入れるput effort into; put strength into; strain
- 力が付くgain strength; increase ability; become stronger
- 力が入るput strength into; tense up; be under strain · be enthusiastic; put one's heart into · be exhausted (ironic)
- 力が出るgain strength; feel energized