体力

• Pinyin: tǐ lì
• Hanzi breakdown: 体 = 亻(person) + 本 (root), body; 力 = pictograph of a flexed arm, strength

Meaning

Physical strength; stamina; physical energy.

Refers to one's capacity for physical exertion and endurance. Often used when discussing work that requires physical effort (体力劳动), athletic performance, or physical condition. Can decline with age or illness. Contrasts with 脑力 (mental capacity/effort).

Examples

1. 爬了一天的山，大家的体力都消耗得差不多了。 After hiking all day, everyone's physical energy was pretty much depleted.
2. 这份工作需要很好的体力，不太适合老年人。 This job requires good physical strength and isn't very suitable for elderly people.
3. 运动员平时要加强训练来提高体力。 Athletes need to strengthen their training regularly to improve their stamina.

Usage Guide

Context: sports, work, health

Tone: descriptive

Do Say

• 他体力很好，跑完马拉松还不觉得累。(He has great stamina; he doesn't feel tired after running a marathon.)
• 体力劳动。(Physical labor.)

Don't Say

• 体力工作 for occupation — use 体力劳动 for physical labor; 体力工作 is less natural

Origin & History

Compound of 体 (body) + 力 (strength/power), meaning the strength or power of the body.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal