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noun HSK 2
lì
strength · power · force · ability

Meaning

力 is a fundamental word meaning physical strength, force, or power. It also extends to capability and effort. Originally pictographic, it depicted a plow or arm muscle, symbolizing physical exertion.

Usage

力 is often used in compounds rather than standalone. Common in words about effort (努力), ability (能力), power (力量), and physical forces. In classical texts, it can mean 'to strive,' but modern usage is primarily as a noun component.

Examples

  1. 01
    他用力推开了门。
    Tā yòng lì tuī kāi le mén.
    He pushed the door open forcefully.
  2. 02
    我们要尽自己最大的力。
    Wǒ men yào jìn zì jǐ zuì dà de lì.
    We must do our utmost.

Common collocations

  • 尽力
    jìn lì
    to do one's best
  • 用力
    yòng lì
    to exert force
  • 有力
    yǒu lì
    powerful, forceful
  • 力气
    lì qì
    physical strength

Antonyms

Origin

Oracle bone script shows 力 as a pictograph of a plow or bent arm muscle, representing physical strength and labor.

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