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strength, power

JLPT N4

Character Breakdown

Understanding (lì)

The character primarily means 'strength' or 'power' and is used both in physical and abstract contexts. It can refer to physical force, mental or intellectual power, or collective strength.

Common Uses

  • Physical strength: e.g., 用力 (to exert force)
  • Abstract power or ability: e.g., 努力 (effort), 力量 (capacity)
  • Collective or team power: e.g., 团队力量 (team strength)

Collocations and Patterns

  • 用力 (yòng lì): to use force, often physical
  • 努力 (nǔ lì): to make an effort, work hard
  • 力量 (lì liàng): strength, capacity
  • 发挥力量 (fā huī lì liàng): to exert power or influence

Notes

When is used alone, it often emphasizes physical strength or effort. In compounds, it can broaden to intellectual or abstract power. It is a common character in both spoken and written Chinese and appears in many idiomatic expressions. Avoid confusing with similar-sounding words that do not relate to strength or power.

Example Sentences

He used all his strength to finish the race.

The power of the team is greater than that of an individual.

The development of science and technology requires intellectual power.