勢力

せいりょく

influence, power, might, strength

JLPT N1

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"勢力" (せいりょく) refers to power, influence, or strength, often in social, political, or business contexts. It describes the ability to affect or control situations or groups.

Common Contexts

It is frequently used to talk about political factions, companies, or groups competing for dominance or influence. For example, "勢力争い" means a power struggle.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 勢力を持つ: to have influence or power
  • 勢力争い: power struggle
  • 新しい勢力: new force or emerging power

Register and Nuance

This word is formal and often appears in news, politics, or business discussions. It is not used for physical strength but rather social or organizational power.

Learner Tips

Avoid confusing "勢力" with physical strength words like "力" alone. "勢力" implies influence over others or a domain, not just raw power.

Example Sentences

そのかいしゃはこくないでおおきなせいりょくをもっている。

That company has a large influence domestically.

せいじのせかいではせいりょくあらそいがはげしい。

Power struggles are intense in the political world.

あたらしいせいりょくがしじょうにさんにゅうしてきた。

A new force has entered the market.