Meaning
势力 refers to power, influence, or force that a person, group, or organization wields in society, politics, or a specific domain. It often carries connotations of authority backed by resources, connections, or strength, and can be neutral or slightly negative depending on context.
Usage
Commonly used to describe political factions, criminal organizations, influential families, or any group with significant sway. Native speakers often use it when discussing power dynamics, territorial control, or social influence. It appears frequently in news, historical texts, and discussions about organized groups.
Examples
- 01这个地区有多个政治势力在争夺控制权。.Multiple political forces are competing for control in this region.
- 02警方正在打击黑社会势力。.The police are cracking down on organized crime forces.
Characters
Measure words
- 股一股势力
- 个一个势力集团
Common collocations
- 政治势力political forces
- 黑社会势力organized crime forces
- 扩大势力to expand one's influence
- 势力范围sphere of influence
Antonyms
Origin
The word combines 势 (power/势 势/momentum) and 力 (strength), literally meaning 'power-strength.' It evolved to describe the comprehensive influence one holds through position, resources, and connections.