威力

• Reading: いりょく
• Romaji: iryoku
• Kanji breakdown: 威 (i) — authority, dignity, might; 力 (ryoku) — power, force
• Pronunciation: /i.ɾjo.kɯ/

Meaning

Power; might; force; authority; influential strength.

Describes impressive or overwhelming power — whether physical force, the impact of a natural disaster, or the influential authority of a person or institution. Also a legal term: 威力業務妨害 (obstruction of business by force) is a criminal charge. Carries a stronger, more imposing nuance than 力 alone.

Examples

1. 台風の威力で多くの建物が被害を受けた。 The force of the typhoon caused damage to many buildings.
2. この新しい洗剤は汚れを落とす威力がすごい。 This new detergent has incredible power when it comes to removing stains.
3. 彼の発言には大きな威力があった。 His words carried a great deal of weight.

Usage Guide

Context: news, natural disasters, legal

Tone: emphatic

Origin & History

Compound of 威 (i, authority/dignity/intimidation) + 力 (ryoku, power/force). The character 威 carries connotations of awe-inspiring authority.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal