Meaning and Usage
"动力" (dònglì) primarily means "motive power" or "driving force." It can refer to literal physical power, such as the energy that drives a machine, or metaphorically to motivation or impetus behind actions and progress.
Common Contexts
- Mechanical or physical power: describing the source of energy for machines or vehicles.
- Psychological or motivational force: describing what drives a person or group to act or improve.
Collocations and Patterns
- 动力来自 + source (e.g., 电力, 燃料): specifying the origin of power.
- 前进的动力: the motivation to move forward or progress.
- 成功的动力: the driving force behind success.
Usage Notes
"动力" is often used in formal or semi-formal contexts. When referring to motivation, it emphasizes a strong internal or external force pushing someone forward. It differs from "兴趣" (interest) or "愿望" (wish) by focusing on the active force rather than just desire or liking.
Avoid confusing "动力" with "动力学" (dynamics), which is a scientific term. Also, "动力" is more abstract when used metaphorically, so context is important to understand whether it refers to physical power or motivation.