Strength in Japanese
"strength" in Japanese, with the kanji that carry the meaning.
力
chikara
4 Japanese kanji carry the meaning "strength". The most common choice is shown first.
Which one to use
力 is strength as a plain fact — the force in a body or a machine. 強 is strong as a quality, the opposite of weak. 剛 is hard, unbending strength, the kind that does not yield. 勢 is momentum, the strength of a force already moving.
Top pick
power, strength, strong, strain, bear up, exert
Reading: ryoku
2 strokes · powerful, nature
Where it comes from
Pictograph of arm muscle.
What it carries
Power, ability, effort. Represents energy and capability.
Related kanji for "strength"
strength
kyou · powerful
Composed of bow (弓) and insect. Strong insect like a bow (beetle).
strength
gou · powerful
Composed of hill and sword. Strong like sword.
strength
sei · powerful, spiritual
Composed of plant and power. Momentum of power.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Japanese kanji for strength?
The most common kanji for "strength" is 力, read as ryoku. It means power, strength, strong. Related kanji: 強 (strength), 剛 (strength), 勢 (strength).
How many strokes does 力 have?
力 has 2 strokes.