Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Power" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "power", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
力
ちから (chikara)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
威力
いりょく (iryoku)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "power" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 力 and 威力.
In Japanese, 力 (ちから (chikara)) is typically associated with "power, strength, ability" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents 物理的な強さだけでなく、能力や影響力、精神的な強さなど、幅広い意味で使われます。.
On the other hand, 威力 (いりょく (iryoku)) maps to "power, might, authority, force" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to the power or force that something possesses, often implying a strong impact or influence. Can be used for natural phenomena, weapons, or even a person's authority.. A literal translation of "power" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "力"
この箱は重くて、一人では運ぶ力がありません。
This box is heavy, and I don't have the strength to carry it alone.
Bilingual Context for "威力"
その台風は恐ろしい威力で町を破壊した。
That typhoon destroyed the town with terrible power.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "この箱は重くて、一人では運ぶ ＿＿＿ がありません。" (Meaning: "This box is heavy, and I don't have the strength to carry it alone.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "力" fits here because it means "power, strength, ability" in the context of: "This box is heavy, and I don't have the strength to carry it alone.". "威力" represents "power, might, authority, force".