Meaning and Usage
"動力" (どうりょく) primarily refers to the power or force that drives machines or systems. It can mean mechanical power, such as electricity or fuel, that causes movement or operation. Beyond physical power, it is also used metaphorically to describe the driving force or motivation behind actions or success.
Common Contexts
You will often see "動力" in technical or engineering contexts when discussing engines, machines, or energy sources. In everyday conversation, it can appear in more abstract senses, such as describing someone's motivation or the impetus behind a project.
Collocations and Patterns
- 動力を使う: to use power or energy
- 動力源: power source
- 動力を提供する: to provide power
- 成功の動力: driving force behind success
Register and Nuance
"動力" is a formal and somewhat technical term. It is appropriate in academic, scientific, or business contexts. When used metaphorically, it adds a sense of strong motivation or essential driving force.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "動力" with "力" (ちから), which means general strength or ability. "動力" specifically implies a source of power that causes movement or action, often mechanical or motivational, rather than just physical strength.