Listen to the audio pronunciation 3 times to gain XP
March 24, 2026
势力(勢力)shìlì(shi4li4)
势力 (shìlì) refers to power or influence, often in a political or social context. It denotes the capability to affect decisions or events, and is frequently used in discussions about authority, domination, or control within various groups or structures.
Frequency#6196DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of 势力 is often linked to the historical context of dynasties and political power struggles, where influence could determine the fate of leaders and nations. It reflects the importance of social hierarchy and authority in Chinese society.
Memory Tip
Imagine a strong 'shih' (势) that stands tall and commands respect, combined with 'li' (力) which means power. Together, think of a 'powerful force' that can sway people and outcomes, like a giant shadow looming over a crowd.
Meanings of 势力
shìlì(shi4li4)
1power
2(ability to) influence
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 势力
势力Simplified
勢力Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#6196Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L6IntermediateHSKKL3CEFRB2
Podcast: 势力
Podcast: 势力
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 势力
Quick Contrast
权力 (quánlì) refers specifically to power or authority, often in an official or legal context, while 势力 (shìlì) emphasizes influence and social power.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a strong 'shih' (势) that stands tall and commands respect, combined with 'li' (力) which means power. Together, think of a 'powerful force' that can sway people and outcomes, like a giant shadow looming over a crowd.
Usage Notes
Be cautious with the connotation of this word; it can imply a negative influence when referring to manipulation or coercion. Common collocations include '政治势力' (political power) and '经济势力' (economic influence). Ensure correct tones: '势' is fourth tone and '力' is fifth tone.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 6 word, 势力 connects with other advanced vocabulary about power dynamics, governance, and social structures. Focus on using it in contexts discussing influence and authority to build your understanding of related concepts.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of 势力 is often linked to the historical context of dynasties and political power struggles, where influence could determine the fate of leaders and nations. It reflects the importance of social hierarchy and authority in Chinese society.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 势力 with 力量 (lìliàng), which means strength or physical power. For example, saying '他的势力很大' (His power is big) might imply influence, but '他的力量很大' (His strength is big) refers to physical capability. Use 势力 when discussing influence.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 势力
Premium — Locked
AI tone practice
Pro
Drill the tone of 势力 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 势力 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Write correctly 3 times to earn XP
Grammar Patterns of 势力
势力 functions as a noun — it names a person, place, thing, or concept. Place it as a subject before the verb (主+谓) or as an object after the verb (谓+宾). Most Chinese nouns require a measure word between the number and the noun (e.g. 一个/三本). It carries 2 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Exercise 1 of 3
Complete the Sentence
极右____在20世纪80年代有所抬头。
The extreme right reared its ugly head in the 1980s.
The extreme right reared its ugly head in the 1980s.
2
经过几年之后, 这批人却成了福特公司的一股独立势力.
jīng guò jī nián zhī hòu, , zhè pī rén què chéng le fú tè gōng sī de yī gǔ dú lì shì.
Over the years, this group has become like a sovereign power at Ford unto itself.
3
然而,岔断他的思潮的可不是他祈求的那个“回音”, 而是那股不可思议的反对势力.
rán ér, , chà duàn tā de sī cháo de kě bù shì tā qí qiú de nà“ gè “”, huí yīn ”, ér shì nà gǔ bù kě sī yì de fǎn.
Instead of the answer he demanded, that inexplicable counterinfluence cut across the current of his thought.
Cultural Notes for 势力
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the concept of 势力 is often linked to the historical context of dynasties and political power struggles, where influence could determine the fate of leaders and nations. It reflects the importance of social hierarchy and authority in Chinese society.
Frequently Asked Questions about 势力
势力 focuses more on influence and power within social contexts, while 权力 (quánlì) specifically refers to formal authority or legal power.
Yes, it can refer to positive influence, such as a leader's ability to rally support, but it often carries a more neutral or negative connotation.
It is more frequent in formal or written contexts, especially in political discussions, rather than casual conversation.
