阻力

zǔlì

resistance

HSK 7

Character Breakdown

Understanding 阻力 (zǔlì)

阻力 literally combines (to hinder) and (strength), meaning 'resistance' or 'obstruction.' It is commonly used to describe physical resistance, such as mechanical friction or force opposing movement, as well as metaphorical resistance like social, psychological, or political opposition.

Usage in Context

阻力 often appears in technical contexts (machines, physics) and in abstract contexts (reform, ideas). For example, "机器阻力" refers to mechanical resistance, while "心理阻力" refers to mental or emotional resistance.

Common Collocations

  • 遇到阻力 (encounter resistance): used when facing obstacles or opposition.
  • 产生阻力 (generate resistance): often used in physics or metaphorical contexts.
  • 克服阻力 (overcome resistance): implies successfully dealing with obstacles.

Nuances and Tips

When using 阻力, consider whether the resistance is physical or abstract. It is more formal and often used in written or professional contexts rather than casual speech. Avoid confusing 阻力 with 抵抗 (dǐkàng), which emphasizes active resistance or opposition, whereas 阻力 can be passive or inherent resistance.

Understanding 阻力 helps learners describe challenges and obstacles clearly in both concrete and figurative language.

Example Sentences

这台机器在运转时遇到了很大的阻力。

Zhè tái jīqì zài yùnzhuǎn shí yù dào le hěn dà de zǔlì.

This machine encountered a lot of resistance while operating.

改革过程中会遇到各种阻力,需要耐心解决。

Gǎigé guòchéng zhōng huì yù dào gè zhǒng zǔlì, xūyào nàixīn jiějué.

During the reform process, various resistances will be encountered and need

心理阻力让他很难接受新的观点。

Xīnlǐ zǔlì ràng tā hěn nán jiēshòu xīn de guāndiǎn.

Psychological resistance made it difficult for him to accept new ideas.