sai3 lik6勢力势力
Jyutpingsai3 lik6
Yalesai lihk
Definition
Power, force, or influence; the ability to influence situations or other people's actions according to one's will.
neutralpeopleother
How it's used
Often used to describe groups, factions, or organizations that exert control over a specific domain or territory. It carries a slightly more formal or political weight compared to simple words for strength or ability. When referring to individuals, it implies they have built up a network of support or authority that allows them to sway outcomes.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
sphere of influence
expand one's influence
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe physical strength or personal energy, as those are better expressed by words like 力氣 or 精神. It is strictly about social, political, or organizational leverage.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
