势力

• Pinyin: shì lì
• Hanzi breakdown: 势 = 埶 (plant) + 力 (power), meaning momentum; 力 = pictograph of a plow, meaning strength

Meaning

Power; influence; force (often political or social).

Refers to the power, influence, or sphere of control that a person, group, or organization has. Can be neutral but often has negative connotations when referring to factions or cliques. Common in political, historical, and business contexts. Often modified by 政治 (political), 黑暗 (dark), or 敌对 (hostile).

Examples

1. 他在公司的势力越来越大。 His power in the company is growing larger and larger.
2. 各方势力都想控制这个地区。 Various factions all want to control this region.
3. 我们要警惕境外敌对势力。 We must be vigilant against hostile foreign forces.

Usage Guide

Context: politics, business, history

Tone: analytical

Do Say

• 势力范围很广。(The sphere of influence is very broad.)
• 不同势力之间的斗争。(The struggle between different factions.)

Don't Say

• 他很有势力帮我 — for personal ability to help, use 能力 or 办法, not 势力

Origin & History

Compound of 势 (power/momentum) + 力 (force), meaning combined power and influence.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal