dung6 lik6動力动力
Jyutpingdung6 lik6
Yaleduhng lihk
Definition
Driving force, motive power, or impetus that pushes things forward.
neutralworkdescriptions
How it's used
Often used in abstract contexts to describe the internal drive or external push behind an action or development. While it functions as a noun, it frequently appears with the measure word 股 to quantify the intensity of that force. It carries a slightly more formal or professional tone compared to everyday words like 心機 or 衝勁.
Measure word
gu2股gúExamples
He studies so hard because he has motivation.
Do you have any motivation for your work?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe physical movement or mechanical speed, as it specifically refers to the metaphorical force or impetus behind an action rather than actual kinetic energy.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
