noun HSK 5
Traditional 動力
dòng
power · force · motivation · impetus · driving force

Meaning

动力 refers to the force or energy that causes something to move or function, both literally (mechanical power) and figuratively (motivation or drive). It encompasses physical power sources like engines as well as psychological motivation that propels people to take action.

Usage

Commonly used in both technical contexts (machinery, physics) and everyday speech about motivation. Frequently appears in phrases about what drives or motivates people. Native speakers often use it when discussing sources of inspiration, reasons for working hard, or what keeps them going. Can be paired with verbs like 有 (to have), 缺乏 (to lack), or 提供 (to provide).

Examples

  1. 01
    父母的支持是我继续努力的动力
    de zhī chí shì de dòng .
    My parents' support is the driving force for me to keep working hard.
  2. 02
    这辆汽车的动力系统非常先进。
    Zhè liàng chē de dòng tǒng fēi cháng xiān jìn.
    This car's power system is very advanced.

Characters

Measure words

  • zhǒng一种动力
  • 一股动力

Common collocations

  • 学习动力
    xué dòng
    motivation to study
  • 缺乏动力
    quē dòng
    to lack motivation
  • 提供动力
    gōng dòng
    to provide impetus/power
  • 动力系统
    dòng tǒng
    power system

Antonyms

Origin

Compound of 动 (movement) and 力 (force/power), literally meaning 'moving force.' The term combines these basic concepts to express both physical and metaphorical driving forces.

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