动力 dònglì motive power
motive power; (figuratively) motivation; impetus
How to remember 动力: 动 move + 力 power = motive power.
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How it is used
- Both literal motive power and figurative motivation - 提供动力 (tígōng dònglì) provide power, 学习的动力 (xuéxí de dònglì) the drive to study.
- The figurative 'driving force/impetus' sense is very common: 发展的动力 (fāzhǎn de dònglì) the engine of development.
- Contrast with 动机 (dòngjī, motive/intention behind an act) - 动力 pushes you forward, 动机 is the reason you act.