Translation and Meaning of: 武力 - buryoku

The word 「武力」 (buryoku) is composed of two kanji characters: 「武」 and 「力」. The first kanji, 「武」 (bu), means "military" or "war." This kanji is often associated with terms related to armed forces and the carrying out of activities involving defense and combat. The second kanji, 「力」 (ryoku), represents "strength" or "power." Thus, the combination of these characters forms the concept of "military power," or the ability to use force in contexts of conflict.

The etymology of the word traces back to ancient times in Japan, where the combination of the meanings of each kanji reflected fundamental aspects of society and politics. The kanji 「武」 is linked to stories of warriors, such as the famous samurai, who stood out for their mastery in the use of the sword and other combat skills. The concept of 「力」 transcends this, encompassing not only physical strength but also the energy applied in resolving conflicts. The radicals within each kanji reinforce these meanings, such as the radical 「弋」 in 「武」, symbolizing the action of fighting.

In the current context, "武力" (buryoku) still holds significant relevance, especially in discussions about global conflicts and the military capabilities of a country. The word is used when addressing themes of military strategy, national defense, and even diplomatic negotiations, where military power can be a deterrent factor. Furthermore, "武力" may arise in debates about the ethical and moral use of force, reflecting on when and how military power should be employed in the international arena.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 力量 (Rikiryō) - Capacity, strength, or specific power of an individual or object.
• 威力 (Iryoku) - Force or power, often used in contexts of intimidation or impressive strength.
• 軍事力 (Gunji-ryoku) - Military strength, the power of a nation in terms of its military capabilities.
• 武勇 (Buyō) - Courage or bravery in combat.
• 武力 (Buryoku) - Armed force, often used to refer to the capacity to use military force.
• 武力行使 (Buryoku kōshi) - Use of military force, usually in the context of intervention or combat.
• 武装力量 (Busō-ryōka) - Armed forces, indicating an organized grouping that uses weapons.
• 兵力 (Heiryoku) - Troop strength, referring to the number or capacity of soldiers in an army.

武力

Romaji: buryoku
Kana: ぶりょく
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: armed power; military power; the sword; strength

Meaning in English: armed might;military power;the sword;force

Definition: The use of coercive force against others through war or violence.