力量
lìliang
Strength
力量 (lìliàng) is a versatile word for "strength" in Mandarin Chinese, referring to physical power, mental fortitude, or the collective force of a group. It can also mean "power" or "force" in a broader sense.
What does 力量 (lìliang) mean?
力量 (lìliang) means “strength” in English. Word for word, it breaks down as “force amount / power quantity.”
When to use it
Neutral. For purely physical strength or stamina, 体力 (tǐlì) is often used. When talking about the actual power or capability of a team, company, or nation, 实力 (shílì) is more appropriate. For the "strength" or intensity of something like light, sound, or an earthquake, 强度 (qiángdù) is the correct term.
How to pronounce it
Sounds like "LEE-lyang." The first syllable "li" is a falling tone, and the second syllable "liang" is a neutral tone.
Other ways to say it
- 体力tǐlìphysical strength / stamina
- 实力shílìactual strength / capability (e.g., of a team)
- 强度qiángdùintensity / strength (e.g., of a signal, earthquake)
Examples
他用尽全身的力量推开了门。
tā yòngjìn quánshēn de lìliang tuīkāi le mén.
He used all his strength to push open the door.
团结就是力量。
tuánjié jiùshì lìliang.
Unity is strength.
我们需要增强团队的实力。
wǒmen xūyào zēngqiáng tuánduì de shílì.
We need to enhance the team's strength/capability.
Pro tip: While 力量 is general, remember to use 强度 (qiángdù) for the "strength" or intensity of things like light, sound, or an earthquake, and 实力 (shílì) for the "strength" of an organization or country.
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