力
[t͡ɕi̥ka̠ɾa̠]
The English word 'might' can be represented in Japanese using 力, though it functions differently from the English modal verb.
While the word 力 refers to power or ability, it is used in contexts where one might discuss the necessity or presence of strength or capacity. For example, when expressing that something 'might' happen, speakers often use informal markers like kamo or darō.
Meaning: indicator of conditional or possible actions (verb)
What does it mean word for word?
力 literally means power, strength or ability.
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Examples in context
- トムにはお前の力が必要かもな。Tom might need your help.This sentence is useful for showing how 力 can be used when discussing the necessity of help.Tatoeba #12113060 by bunbuku, translation #8510485 by CK
- 私たちは彼の能力を過小評価していたのかもしれない。We might have underestimated his ability.This sentence demonstrates how 力 relates to discussing someone's ability.Tatoeba #165276 by small_snow, translation #249230 by CH
- 私は力持ちに見えるかもしれないが、実はそうではない。I might seem strong, but in actuality I am anything but.This sentence illustrates how 力 is used when describing being strong.Tatoeba #2428585 by wakatyann630, translation #4633590 by mactrey
- Kyō wa ame ga furu kamo shirenai. (今日は雨が降るかもしれない。)It might rain today.
- Ano resutoran wa oishi kamo shirenai. (あのレストランは美味しいかもしれない。)That restaurant might be delicious.
- Kanojo wa tabun gakkō ni iru. (彼女はたぶん学校にいる。)She might be at school.
- 4 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Hiyori and Ren are discussing a difficult project.
- 陽葵 Himariこの仕事にはもっと力が必要かもしれません。Kono shigoto ni wa motto chikara ga hitsuyō kamoshiremasen.We might need more strength/effort for this job.
- 蓮 Ren確かに、一人では無理そうだな。Tashika ni, hitori de wa muri sō da na.True, it seems impossible to do alone.
- 陽葵 Himari誰に力を貸してもらいましょうか？Dare ni chikara o kashite moraimashō ka?Who should we ask to lend us their strength?
- 蓮 Renリーダーに相談してみよう。Rīdā ni sōdan shite miyō.Let's try consulting the leader.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry 力, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries 力, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
