Meaning and Usage
The word 用力 (yònglì) literally means "to use strength" or "to exert force." It is commonly used to describe physical actions where effort or power is applied, such as pushing, pulling, or gripping something firmly.
Common Contexts
用力 is often used in everyday situations involving physical exertion, like opening a heavy door, lifting objects, or sports activities. It can also be used metaphorically to encourage someone to put effort into an action, such as shaking hands firmly to show confidence.
Collocations and Patterns
- 用力推 (yònglì tuī): to push with force
- 用力拉 (yònglì lā): to pull hard
- 用力握手 (yònglì wòshǒu): to shake hands firmly
These collocations emphasize the application of physical strength.
Nuances
Using 用力 implies a noticeable amount of effort or strength, often more than usual. It is more specific than simply "to use" (用) because it highlights the intensity of the action.
Common Confusion
Don't confuse 用力 with 努力 (nǔlì), which means "to make an effort" or "to strive" in a broader, often non-physical sense. 用力 is specifically about physical force or strength.