noun HSK 5
gravity · gravitational force
Meaning
重力 refers to the force of gravity, the natural phenomenon by which objects with mass are attracted toward one another. In everyday usage, it typically means the gravitational pull of the Earth that causes objects to fall downward and gives them weight.
Usage
This is a scientific and technical term commonly used in physics, astronomy, and everyday discussions about physical phenomena. Native speakers use it when discussing weight, falling objects, space, or physical forces. It appears frequently in educational contexts and science writing.
Examples
- 01由于重力的作用，物体会向地面下落。, .Due to the effect of gravity, objects fall toward the ground.
- 02宇航员在太空中体验了失重状态，几乎感觉不到重力。, .Astronauts experience weightlessness in space and can barely feel gravity.
Characters
Common collocations
- 重力加速度gravitational acceleration
- 重力场gravitational field
- 失重weightlessness (loss of gravity)
- 克服重力to overcome gravity
Origin
The term combines 重 (heavy/weight) and 力 (force) to literally mean 'weight force' or 'heavy force,' which aptly describes the gravitational force that gives objects their weight.