得力

• Pinyin: dé lì
• Hanzi breakdown: 得 = 彳 + 旦 + 寸 (to obtain); 力 = pictograph of a muscled arm (strength)

Meaning

Capable; effective; competent. Describes a person who performs reliably and skilfully, or assistance that is genuinely helpful.

Used to praise subordinates, assistants, or methods that are truly productive. A high compliment in professional contexts — implies both ability and reliability.

Examples

1. 这位秘书工作得力，把一切事务安排得井井有条。 This secretary is highly capable and keeps everything organized and running smoothly.
2. 他手下有几位得力干将，项目推进十分顺利。 He has several strong right-hand people under him, so the project is moving forward very smoothly.
3. 多亏了得力的团队配合，我们提前完成了任务。 Thanks to the team’s effective coordination, we finished the task ahead of schedule.

Usage Guide

Context: professional, management, praise

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 他是公司最得力的员工之一，深受管理层信赖。(He is one of the company's most capable employees, deeply trusted by management.)
• 有了得力助手，老板才能腾出精力专注战略。(With a capable assistant, the boss can free up energy to focus on strategy.)

Don't Say

• 这个机器很得力 — use 这个机器很有效 for machines; 得力 refers to people or support, not equipment

Origin & History

得 (obtain) + 力 (strength/power)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal