権力

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 権力 (けんりょく) is a noun for power or authority to influence people, institutions, or decisions.
• Basic usage: It combines with verbs such as 守る, preserve, and 持つ, possess.
  • 王は権力を守るため周囲を疑い始めた。 — The king began distrusting those around him to preserve his power.
  • 権力を持つ者ほど責任を自覚すべきだ。 — People with authority must be especially aware of their responsibilities.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Power and rights
  • 権利 is a right held legitimately by a person or group, whereas 権力 is the power to affect others or institutions.