引力

• Reading: いんりょく
• Romaji: inryoku
• Kanji breakdown: 引 (in) — pull, draw; 力 (ryoku) — force, power
• Pronunciation: /iɴ.ɾʲo.kɯ/

Meaning

Gravitational pull; attraction. The force that draws objects toward each other.

A physics noun most commonly referring to gravitational attraction, as in 万有引力 (banyuu inryoku, universal gravitation). Can also describe magnetic attraction. Occasionally used metaphorically to describe the pull or allure of something. Distinguished from 重力 (juuryoku, gravity), which specifically refers to the gravitational force experienced on or near a celestial body.

Examples

1. 地球の引力のおかげで私たちは地面に立てる。 Thanks to Earth's gravitational pull, we can stand on the ground.
2. ニュートンは万有引力の法則を発見した。 Newton discovered the law of universal gravitation.
3. 月の引力が潮の満ち引きに影響を与える。 The moon's gravitational pull affects the tides.

Usage Guide

Context: physics, science, education

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese: 引 (in, pull/draw) + 力 (ryoku, force/power). Literally 'pulling force' — the force that attracts objects together.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal