power · strength

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 力 has two strokes; on its own it is read ちから, and its on-readings include りょく and りき.
• Basic usage: It describes physical strength and the ability to do something.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Physical strength and ability
  • 力 can mean the strength to open a heavy door or the ability to listen to someone fully. 能力(のうりょく) likewise covers nonphysical abilities, such as identifying problems.
• Choosing the on-reading
  • 能力 uses りょく, but 力士(りきし), meaning a sumo wrestler, uses りき.
  • 力士 names the role of a sumo wrestler, not strong people in general.