底力

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 底力 (そこぢから) is a noun for deep or hidden strength that emerges under pressure.
• Basic usage: It describes reserves shown late in a contest or capacity built through long experience in a person or organization.
  • 苦しい終盤で選手たちの底力が発揮された。 — The athletes' hidden strength emerged in the difficult final stage.
  • 小さな工房にも長年培った底力がある。 — Even the small workshop possesses strength built up over many years.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Visible power and reserves
  • 力 broadly means strength, while 底力 emphasizes capacity accumulated beneath the surface and revealed when needed. Its reading is そこぢから.