The kanji 力 primarily means "power," "strength," or "ability." It represents physical force, the capacity to do something, or the inherent potential within something or someone. This core meaning extends to various applications, including effort, energy, and influence.

・On-yomi (音読み): リ (ri) ・Kun-yomi (訓読み): ちから (chikara)

⚫︎ 体力 Translation: Physical strength; stamina ⚫︎ 努力 Translation: Effort; diligence; hard work ⚫︎ 能力 Translation: Ability; capacity; competence

The kanji 力 is a pictograph. It originally depicted an arm flexing or a plow, symbolizing physical strength and exertion. Over time, the form of the character has simplified, but the core meaning of "power" and "strength" remains.