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B1 adjective 10 min read

有力

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 有力 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 有力 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you don't need to use the word 有力 (yūryoku) often, but it is good to recognize it. Think of it as a special way to say 'strong' or 'important.' In basic Japanese, you usually use tsuyoi (strong) or taisetsu (important). However, yūryoku is used when someone has a lot of influence, like a boss or a famous leader.

The word is made of two parts: 有 (yū) which means 'to have,' and 力 (ryoku) which means 'power' or 'strength.' So, it literally means 'having power.' You might see it on the news when they talk about people who might win an election. Just remember: it's not for 'strong muscles,' but for 'strong importance' in society. For now, just try to remember that yūryoku = 'influential.'

At the A2 level, you can start using 有力 (yūryoku) to describe people or things that are 'promising' or 'likely to succeed.' It is a Na-adjective, so you use it with na before a noun. For example, yūryoku na kōho means 'a strong candidate.'

You will hear this word in simple news stories or sports reports. If a team is very good and everyone thinks they will win, they are yūryoku. It is different from tsuyoi because tsuyoi is just 'strong,' while yūryoku means they have the 'power' to influence the result. Try using it when you talk about your favorite sports team or a famous person who has a lot of power in their company. It makes your Japanese sound a bit more professional than just using tsuyoi.

At the B1 level, you should understand the nuance of 有力 (yūryoku) as 'influential,' 'convincing,' or 'promising.' This is a key word for discussing topics like politics, business, and crime investigations. You should be able to distinguish it from kyōryoku (powerful/intense) and tsuyoi (strong).

Common phrases you should learn include yūryoku na tegakari (a strong clue) and yūryokusha (an influential person). When you use yūryoku, you are implying that something has 'weight' or 'authority.' For example, if you say a theory is yūryoku, you mean it is the most likely or widely accepted theory. This level is where you start using the word to add precision to your descriptions of social and logical strength.

At the B2 level, 有力 (yūryoku) becomes a tool for sophisticated analysis. You should be comfortable using it in formal writing and discussions. You will encounter it in compound forms like yūryokushi suru (to regard as a strong candidate). At this level, you understand that yūryoku is often used to describe market leaders or dominant theories in academic papers.

You should also be aware of its collocations with words like shōko (evidence) and gakusetsu (academic theory). The B2 learner knows that yūryoku carries a sense of 'probative value' or 'market dominance.' You can use it to contrast different options: 'Option A is popular, but Option B is more yūryoku' (meaning Option B has more factual or logical backing). It is a word that signals you are thinking critically about the 'power' behind an idea or person.

At the C1 level, you master the subtle sociolinguistic implications of 有力 (yūryoku). You recognize its use in 'behind-the-scenes' contexts, such as the yūryokusha of a political faction who may not hold an official title but wields immense actual power. You understand the word's role in establishing a hierarchy of credibility in legal and scientific discourse.

A C1 learner can use yūryoku to describe the 'prevailing' winds of opinion or the 'dominant' forces in a complex system. You also understand its use in historical analysis—for example, which clan was the most yūryoku during the Sengoku period. Your usage of yūryoku should be precise, distinguishing it from kenryokuteki (authoritarian) or shihai-teki (dominant). It is about the possession of the capacity to influence, often used with a high degree of objectivity.

At the C2 level, 有力 (yūryoku) is integrated into a deep understanding of Japanese power structures and logical frameworks. You can use the word to navigate the complexities of corporate governance, where yūryoku na kabunushi (influential shareholders) dictate company direction. You appreciate the word's historical evolution and its kanji roots, allowing you to use it in high-level literary or technical translations.

A C2 speaker uses yūryoku to discuss the 'validity' of philosophical arguments or the 'weight' of diplomatic pressure. You can differentiate between yūryoku (influential) and jitsuryoku (actual ability/competence), understanding that one can be yūryoku due to status even if their jitsuryoku is questioned. This level involves a perfect command of the word's formal register and its ability to condense complex social dynamics into a single, powerful adjective.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

有力 in 30 Seconds

有力 (yūryoku) means 'influential' or 'promising.' It is a Na-adjective used for people with power or evidence with high credibility.
Commonly found in news, politics, and sports to describe front-runners or strong leads in investigations.
It differs from 'tsuyoi' (physical strength) by focusing on social weight and logical probability rather than raw force.
Essential for professional Japanese, it appears in phrases like 'yūryoku na kōho' (strong candidate) and 'yūryokusha' (influential person).

The Japanese adjective 有力 (ゆうれき - yūryoku) is a versatile and essential term in the Japanese lexicon, primarily functioning as a Na-adjective. At its core, it signifies the possession of power, influence, or a high degree of probability. Unlike words that describe raw physical strength, yūryoku leans heavily toward social, political, or logical weight. When you describe someone as 有力, you are not necessarily saying they can lift heavy weights; you are saying they have the authority or the resources to sway decisions or outcomes. This word is a staple in news broadcasts, business meetings, and academic discussions, making it a critical bridge for learners moving from basic communication to professional or nuanced Japanese.

Political and Social Influence: In the context of society, 有力 describes individuals or groups who hold significant sway. A yūryokusha (有力者) is a person of influence, such as a local leader, a major donor, or a high-ranking politician. This usage implies that their voice carries more weight than others, often due to their status, wealth, or connections. It is frequently used when discussing election candidates who are considered 'front-runners' or 'promising.'
Logical Strength and Evidence: When applied to abstract concepts like evidence (shōko) or theories (setsu), 有力 translates to 'convincing,' 'strong,' or 'leading.' A yūryoku na shōko is a piece of evidence that is so compelling it might determine the outcome of a trial. Similarly, a yūryoku na setsu is the prevailing or most plausible theory among several possibilities in a scientific or historical debate.
Business and Market Power: In the corporate world, 有力 is used to describe dominant companies or promising investment opportunities. A yūryoku na kigyō is a leading firm in its industry. It suggests stability, market share, and the power to influence market trends. It is a highly positive attribute in professional evaluations.

彼は次期社長の最も有力な候補者です。
(He is the most promising/influential candidate for the next president.)

警察は犯人を特定するための有力な情報を求めている。
(The police are seeking powerful/influential information to identify the suspect.)

Furthermore, 有力 often appears in sports contexts to describe 'favorites' to win. A team described as yūryoku is expected to perform well based on their track record and current form. It encapsulates a sense of 'promising potential' that is backed by existing facts. Understanding 有力 allows you to navigate Japanese news media with much greater ease, as it is one of the most common descriptors for everything from new technologies to political shifts.

Using 有力 (yūryoku) correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical role as a Na-adjective. This means it typically takes the particle na when modifying a noun or ni when functioning as an adverb, though its adverbial use is less common than its attributive use. Let's break down the common structural patterns and the contexts where they shine.

Modifying Nouns (Na + Noun): The most frequent pattern is [有力な + Noun]. This is used to assign the quality of being 'influential' or 'promising' to a specific object or person. Common pairings include yūryoku na kōho (promising candidate), yūryoku na tegakari (strong clue), and yūryoku na kigyō (powerful company). This structure is formal and precise.
Predicate Use (Noun + wa + yūryoku da): When yūryoku comes at the end of a sentence, it functions as the predicate. For example, 'Kono setsu wa yūryoku da' (This theory is convincing/influential). This is common in investigative or academic contexts where one is evaluating the strength of different options or ideas.

その事件にはいくつかの有力な手がかりが見つかった。
(Several powerful clues were found in that case.)

In more advanced usage, you might see 有力視する (yūryokushi suru), which means 'to regard as a strong candidate' or 'to consider as a likely possibility.' This is a compound verb that combines yūryoku with the kanji for 'view' (視). For example: 'Kare wa yūshō kōho toshite yūryokushi sarete iru' (He is being regarded as a strong candidate for the championship).

この地域で最も有力な政治家は誰ですか？
(Who is the most influential politician in this region?)

Degree Adverbs: Because yūryoku is a gradable adjective, you can use adverbs like hijō ni (extremely), mottomo (most), or wari-to (relatively) to modify it. 'Hijō ni yūryoku na jōhō' (Extremely powerful/reliable information) is a common phrase in news reporting.

Whether you are describing a 'promising' new technology (yūryoku na gijutsu) or a 'strong' suspect (yūryoku na yogisha), the structure remains consistent. Focus on the relationship between the 'power' (力) and the 'possession' (有) of that power to determine if yūryoku is the right word for your sentence.

To truly master 有力 (yūryoku), you must observe its natural habitat. This word is not typically found in casual 'textspeak' among friends, nor is it the first word a child learns. Instead, it thrives in environments where authority, evaluation, and analysis are paramount. Let's explore the common scenarios where you will encounter this word in daily Japanese life.

TV News and Newspapers (NHK, Asahi, etc.): This is the primary domain of yūryoku. You will hear it during election cycles: 'Yūryoku na kōho ga jidai o kaeru' (Promising candidates will change the era). You will also see it in crime reporting when police find a 'strong lead' (yūryoku na tegakari). If a journalist says a theory is yūryoku, they are signaling to the public that this is the version of events they should pay attention to.
Sports Commentary: Before a major tournament like the Koshien (high school baseball) or the Olympics, commentators will list the yūryoku na yūshō kōho (strong candidates for the championship). In this context, it translates perfectly to 'front-runner' or 'favorite.' It implies that based on stats and previous performance, these athletes have the 'power' to win.

彼は今回の選挙で最も有力な新人と言われています。
(He is said to be the most promising newcomer in this election.)

In business settings, you will hear it during strategy meetings. If a manager says, 'Kono an wa yūryoku da' (This plan is promising), they are giving it a high evaluation. It suggests the plan has the potential to succeed and should be prioritized. You might also hear yūryoku kigyō when discussing competitors or potential partners.

新しい証拠が出てきたことで、その説が有力になった。
(With the emergence of new evidence, that theory became the leading one.)

Academic and Legal Contexts: In law, yūryoku na shōko is evidence that has high probative value. In academia, a yūryoku na gakusetsu is a widely accepted or very plausible theory. In both cases, the word conveys a sense of intellectual or legal 'weight' that cannot be easily dismissed.

By paying attention to these contexts, you'll notice that yūryoku is a 'prestige' word. It elevates the conversation and indicates that the speaker is making a serious, evidence-based evaluation. Whether you're watching a detective drama or reading a financial report, yūryoku is your key to identifying what is important and who has the power.

While 有力 (yūryoku) is a common word, its specific nuances can lead to errors for English speakers who rely too heavily on direct translations like 'strong' or 'powerful.' Because English uses 'strong' for everything from coffee to muscles to arguments, Japanese learners often overextend yūryoku into areas where it doesn't belong.

Mistake 1: Physical Strength: One of the most frequent errors is using yūryoku to describe physical muscle. You cannot say 'Kare wa yūryoku na karada o shite iru' to mean 'He has a strong body.' For physical strength, use tsuyoi (強い) or takumashii (たくましい). Yūryoku is about social or logical power, not the ability to bench press.
Mistake 2: Sensory Intensity: In English, we might say 'a strong smell' or 'a strong wind.' In Japanese, using yūryoku here is incorrect. For a strong smell, use tsuyoi nioi. For a strong wind, use kyōfū (強風) or kaze ga tsuyoi. Yūryoku is never used for sensory perceptions or weather phenomena.

❌ 彼は有力な筋肉を持っている。
✅ 彼は強い筋肉を持っている。
(He has strong muscles.)

Another common pitfall is confusing yūryoku with kyōryoku (強力). While both contain the kanji for power, kyōryoku emphasizes the intensity or 'force' of the power itself. For example, a 'powerful magnet' is kyōryoku na jishaku, not yūryoku. Use kyōryoku for things that exert a physical or immediate force, and yūryoku for things that have a 'promising' or 'influential' status.

❌ 有力な接着剤。
✅ 強力な接着剤。
(A powerful adhesive/glue.)

Mistake 3: Misusing 'Promising': While yūryoku can mean 'promising,' it usually implies that the promise is backed by current power or high probability. If you want to say a child is 'promising' (has a bright future), shōrai yūbō (将来有望) is much more natural. Yūryoku for a person usually implies they are already established or are a top contender in a competition.

By avoiding these 'false friend' translations and focusing on the 'influence' and 'probability' aspects of the word, you can ensure your Japanese sounds natural and professional.

Japanese has several words that overlap with 有力 (yūryoku). To achieve true fluency, you must understand the subtle boundaries between these synonyms. Choosing the right one depends on whether you want to emphasize authority, physical force, or social impact.

有力 (Yūryoku) vs. 強力 (Kyōryoku): As discussed, 有力 is about influence and probability (e.g., a strong candidate). 強力 is about raw force or intensity (e.g., a powerful engine, a strong medicine). Think of yūryoku as 'weight' and kyōryoku as 'force.'
有力 (Yūryoku) vs. 影響力 (Eikyōryoku): 影響力 literally means 'influence power.' While yūryoku describes the *state* of being influential, eikyōryoku is the *noun* for the influence itself. You would say 'Kare wa eikyōryoku ga aru' (He has influence) or 'Kare wa yūryoku na hito da' (He is an influential person).
有力 (Yūryoku) vs. 権力 (Kenryoku): 権力 specifically refers to political or legal power—the kind that comes from a position of authority. Yūryoku is broader; a piece of evidence can be yūryoku, but it cannot have kenryoku. A person with kenryoku is almost always yūryoku, but not vice versa.

比較例:
1. 有力な手がかり (A strong/influential clue)
2. 強力な洗剤 (A powerful detergent)
3. 権力を持つ政治家 (A politician who holds [formal] power)

有望 (Yūbō): 有望 means 'promising' in the sense of having a bright future. It is often used for young people or new startups. While yūryoku candidates are likely to win *now*, yūbō candidates have great potential for the *future*.

In summary, 有力 is the most objective and 'heavy' of these words. It suggests that the power or probability is a measurable fact. Use it when you want to sound authoritative and analytical.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The kanji for 'power' (力) is a pictograph of a plow or a flexed arm muscle, representing physical force. Combined with 'to have' (有), it evolved from simple physical possession of strength to the abstract social influence it means today.

Pronunciation Guide

UK juː.rjɒ.ku

US ju.rjɔ.ku

The pitch accent is 'Heiban' (Flat), meaning it starts low and stays high: yu-URYOKU.

Rhymes With

入力 (nyūryoku - input) 協力 (kyōryoku - cooperation) 能力 (nōryoku - ability) 動力 (dōryoku - power/motive force) 主力 (shuryoku - main force) 暴力 (bōryoku - violence) 重力 (jūryoku - gravity) 知力 (chiryoku - intellect)

Common Errors

Shortening the 'yu' to 'yuryoku' instead of 'yūryoku'.
Pronouncing 'ryoku' as 'ryo-ku' with a heavy English 'R'.
Confusing it with 'yūreki' (history/career) which has different kanji.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Kanji are common but require B1 knowledge.

Writing 3/5

Writing 'Yū' (有) and 'Ryoku' (力) is relatively simple.

Speaking 4/5

Nuance is tricky; easy to confuse with 'tsuyoi'.

Listening 3/5

Common in news; clear pronunciation.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

強い (tsuyoi) 力 (chikara) 有名 (yūmei) 人 (hito) 候補 (kōho)

Learn Next

権力 (kenryoku) 影響 (eikyō) 有望 (yūbō) 実力 (jitsuryoku) 勢力 (seiryoku)

Advanced

既得権益 (kitoku ken'eki) 台頭 (taitō) 払拭 (fusshoku) 裏付け (urazuke) 根拠 (konkyo)

Grammar to Know

Na-Adjective Modification

有力な情報 (Yūryoku na jōhō)

Passive Voice with 'Sare-ru'

有力視されている (Being regarded as influential)

Superlative with 'Mottomo'

最も有力な説 (The most influential theory)

Adverbial form with 'Ni'

有力に働く (To work influentially - rare but possible)

Conditional 'Nara'

有力な証拠があるなら、信じます。 (If there is powerful evidence, I'll believe it.)

Examples by Level

彼は有力な人です。

He is an influential person.

Simple Na-adjective usage.

このチームは有力だ。

This team is strong/promising.

Predicate usage with 'da'.

有力な友達がいます。

I have influential friends.

Modifying a noun.

有力な会社で働きたい。

I want to work at a powerful company.

Expressing a desire.

彼は有力な候補です。

He is a strong candidate.

Simple noun modification.

有力な情報がありますか？

Do you have any powerful/useful information?

Question form.

有力なリーダーが必要です。

An influential leader is necessary.

Using 'hitsuyō' (necessary).

その店は有力な店です。

That shop is an influential/prominent shop.

Descriptive adjective.

田中さんは、この町で有力な政治家だ。

Mr. Tanaka is an influential politician in this town.

Specifying location with 'kono machi de'.

次の試合では、あの選手が有力だ。

In the next match, that player is the favorite.

Using 'yūryoku' as a favorite in sports.

有力な手がかりが見つかりました。

A strong clue was found.

Passive/Resultative 'mitsukatta'.

彼は有力な優勝候補です。

He is a strong candidate for the championship.

Compound noun modification.

この大学は、研究で有力な存在だ。

This university is an influential presence in research.

Describing 'sonzai' (presence).

有力な証拠がないと、信じられません。

I can't believe it without strong evidence.

Conditional 'nai to'.

有力な人脈を作ることは大切です。

Making influential connections is important.

Nominalized verb 'koto wa'.

新しい薬の、有力な効果が期待されている。

A powerful effect from the new medicine is expected.

Passive 'kitai sarete iru'.

警察は、犯人の行方について有力な情報を求めている。

The police are seeking influential information about the suspect's whereabouts.

Formal verb 'motomete iru'.

この説は、今のところ最も有力だとされている。

This theory is considered the most convincing/influential for now.

Using 'mottomo' (most) and 'to sarete iru' (is considered).

彼は業界で非常に有力な立場にいる。

He is in a very influential position in the industry.

Adverbial modification 'hijō ni'.

有力なスポンサーがつけば、プロジェクトは成功するだろう。

If an influential sponsor joins, the project will likely succeed.

Conditional 'ba' and 'darō' (conjecture).

有力な対抗馬が現れたことで、選挙は面白くなった。

With the appearance of a strong rival candidate, the election became interesting.

Using 'taikō-ma' (rival/dark horse).

その企業は、海外市場でも有力なシェアを持っている。

That company holds an influential share in overseas markets as well.

Particles 'mo' (also) and 'o motte iru'.

有力な筋からの情報によると、計画は中止されるらしい。

According to information from an influential source, it seems the plan will be canceled.

Using 'suji' (source/vein) and 'rashii' (it seems).

彼女は次期リーダーとして有力視されている。

She is regarded as a strong candidate for the next leader.

Compound verb 'yūryokushi suru' in passive voice.

その有力な証言が、裁判の決定的な決め手となった。

That powerful testimony became the decisive factor in the trial.

Using 'kime-te' (decisive factor).

有力な手がかりを欠いたまま、捜査は難航している。

Lacking strong clues, the investigation is struggling.

Using 'kaita mama' (while lacking).

その投資家は、IT業界に有力なコネクションを持っている。

That investor has powerful connections in the IT industry.

Loanword 'konekushon' (connection).

有力な学説を覆すには、さらなる研究が必要だ。

Further research is needed to overturn the leading academic theory.

Verb 'kutsugaesu' (to overturn).

有力な既得権益層が、改革を阻んでいる。

Influential vested interest groups are blocking the reforms.

Complex noun phrase 'kitoku ken'eki sō'.

有力な対立候補が不在の中、彼は楽々と当選した。

In the absence of an influential rival candidate, he was easily elected.

Using 'fuzai' (absence) and 'rakuraku' (easily).

経済界の有力者たちが、政府に圧力をかけている。

Influential figures in the business world are putting pressure on the government.

Noun 'yūryokusha' (influential figure).

有力な証拠の提示が、和解への道を開いた。

The presentation of powerful evidence opened the way to a settlement.

Noun phrase 'teiji' (presentation).

有力な世論の形成には、メディアの役割が極めて大きい。

The role of the media is extremely significant in the formation of influential public opinion.

Using 'kiwamete' (extremely) and 'keisei' (formation).

その有力な反対意見を無視することは、政治的に極めて危険だ。

Ignoring that influential dissenting opinion is politically extremely dangerous.

Gerund 'mushi suru koto' (ignoring).

有力な後ろ盾を得たことで、彼の発言力は一気に増した。

By gaining an influential backer, his voice (influence) increased all at once.

Using 'ushirodate' (backer/support).

有力な候補者が乱立し、選挙戦は予断を許さない状況だ。

With many influential candidates running, the election race is unpredictable.

Idiom 'yodan o yurusanai' (unpredictable).

有力な証拠が捏造された疑いがあり、再審が検討されている。

There are suspicions that powerful evidence was fabricated, and a retrial is being considered.

Passive 'netsuzō sareta' (was fabricated).

有力な財界人としての彼の地位は、揺るぎないものとなった。

His position as an influential business leader became unshakable.

Adjective 'yuruginai' (unshakable).

有力な情報筋によれば、合併交渉は最終段階に入っている。

According to influential information sources, merger negotiations have entered the final stage.

Compound 'jōhō-suji' (info source).

有力な新興勢力の台頭により、既存の秩序が脅かされている。

The rise of influential emerging forces is threatening the existing order.

Noun 'taitō' (rise/emergence).

有力な傍証を積み重ねることで、間接的に真実を立証した。

By accumulating influential circumstantial evidence, the truth was indirectly proven.

Using 'bōshō' (circumstantial evidence) and 'risshō' (proof).

有力な派閥抗争の煽りを受けて、その法案は廃案となった。

Affected by the influential factional infighting, the bill was scrapped.

Using 'aori o ukeru' (to be adversely affected by).

有力な仮説を検証するため、大規模な実証実験が試みられた。

A large-scale empirical experiment was attempted to verify the influential hypothesis.

Using 'kenshō' (verification) and 'jisshō' (empirical).

有力な政治家への献金疑惑が、内閣の支持率を急落させた。

Suspicions of donations to influential politicians caused the cabinet's approval rating to plummet.

Causative 'kyūraku saseta'.

有力な顧客を囲い込むための、戦略的な囲い込み策が練られた。

A strategic containment plan was devised to secure influential customers.

Using 'kakoikomu' (to secure/contain).

有力な外圧に屈することなく、独自の外交政策を貫いた。

Without yielding to influential external pressure, they maintained their own foreign policy.

Using 'gaiatsu' (external pressure) and 'kutsuru' (to yield).

有力な地主層の反対により、都市開発計画は大幅に修正された。

Due to opposition from the influential landowning class, the urban development plan was significantly revised.

Using 'jinushisō' (landowning class).

有力な論理の構築が、その論文の学術的価値を決定づけた。

The construction of a powerful logic determined the academic value of that paper.

Using 'ketteizuketa' (determined/finalized).

Common Collocations

有力な候補

有力な手がかり

有力な証拠

有力な情報

有力な説

有力な企業

有力なスポンサー

有力な人脈

有力な対抗馬

有力な立場

Common Phrases

有力視される

— To be regarded as a strong candidate or likely outcome. Used in sports and politics.

優勝候補として有力視されている。

有力な筋

— An influential source or 'informed circles.' Used in news reporting.

有力な筋からの情報です。

有力者

— An influential person or power broker. Refers to someone with social weight.

地元の有力者に挨拶に行く。

有力な候補者

— A front-runner or a promising candidate for a role or position.

彼は最も有力な候補者だ。

有力な手がかり

— A strong lead or clue that is likely to solve a problem.

事件解決の有力な手がかり。

有力校

— A prestigious or strong school, often referring to sports powerhouse schools.

甲子園の有力校が集まる。

有力株

— A promising stock or a person/thing expected to succeed in the future.

彼は将来の有力株だ。

有力な証言

— Powerful or convincing testimony in a legal setting.

目撃者の有力な証言。

有力説

— The leading theory or the most plausible explanation.

この有力説には異論もある。

有力な味方

— A powerful ally or influential supporter.

彼は我々の有力な味方だ。

Often Confused With

有力 vs 強力 (kyōryoku)

Kyōryoku is for physical power/intensity; Yūryoku is for influence/probability.

有力 vs 有望 (yūbō)

Yūbō is for future potential; Yūryoku is for current influence or high probability.

有力 vs 実力 (jitsuryoku)

Jitsuryoku is actual skill/competence; Yūryoku is social weight/influence.

Idioms & Expressions

"有力視する"

— To look upon someone or something as a strong candidate or a likely winner.

世論は彼を次期総裁と有力視している。

Formal

"有力な手がかりを掴む"

— To grasp a strong lead; to finally find the key information needed.

ついに有力な手がかりを掴んだ。

Neutral

"有力者の顔を立てる"

— To save the face of an influential person; to show respect to a power broker.

有力者の顔を立てるために参加した。

Formal/Business

"有力な後ろ盾"

— Having a powerful backer or influential support system.

有力な後ろ盾があっての成功だ。

Neutral/Formal

"有力説を唱える"

— To advocate for or propose a leading theory.

学者が新しい有力説を唱えた。

Academic

"有力な一票"

— An influential vote, often referring to a deciding or heavy-weighted vote.

彼の有力な一票が勝敗を決めた。

Political

"有力なコネ"

— Having powerful connections (slangy 'kone' from connection).

有力なコネで入社した。

Informal

"有力な情報を流す"

— To leak or spread influential/useful information.

あえて有力な情報を流した。

Neutral

"有力な対抗馬をぶつける"

— To pit a strong rival candidate against someone.

野党は有力な対抗馬をぶつけてきた。

Political

"有力な存在感を示す"

— To demonstrate an influential presence.

彼は会議で有力な存在感を示した。

Formal

Easily Confused

有力 vs 有力 (yūryoku)

Both mean 'powerful' in English.

Yūryoku is about influence, status, and probability. You use it for candidates and evidence.

有力な候補者 (A strong candidate)

有力 vs 強力 (kyōryoku)

Both mean 'powerful' in English.

Kyōryoku is about raw force, intensity, or strength. You use it for magnets, engines, or medicine.

強力な磁石 (A powerful magnet)

有力 vs 権力 (kenryoku)

Both involve 'power' and 'influence'.

Kenryoku is specifically political or legal authority. Yūryoku is broader and can apply to evidence or theories.

権力を行使する (To exercise power)

有力 vs 威力 (iryoku)

Both mean 'power' or 'might'.

Iryoku is the 'might' or 'impact' of a weapon or a storm. It describes the effect of power.

爆弾の威力 (The power of a bomb)

有力 vs 勢力 (seiryoku)

Both describe social groups with power.

Seiryoku is more about 'force' or 'influence' in terms of numbers and organized groups (like a faction).

勢力を拡大する (To expand one's influence/territory)

Sentence Patterns

[Person] は有力な [Noun] だ。

彼は有力な候補者だ。

[Noun] が有力な手がかりになる。

この指紋が有力な手がかりになる。

[Theory] が最も有力だとされている。

ビッグバン説が最も有力だとされている。

[Person] は [Role] として有力視されている。

彼女は次期市長として有力視されている。

有力な [Noun] を欠いている。

有力な証拠を欠いている。

有力な [Noun] の台頭により、...

有力な新勢力の台頭により、状況が変わった。

有力な [Noun] に基づき、...

有力な証言に基づき、判決が下された。

有力な [Noun] を積み重ねることで...

有力な傍証を積み重ねることで、立証に成功した。

Word Family

Nouns

有力者 (yūryokusha - influential person)

有力校 (yūryokukō - influential school)

有力視 (yūryokushi - regarding as influential)

Verbs

有力視する (yūryokushi suru - to regard as a strong candidate)

Adjectives

有力な (yūryoku na - influential/promising)

権力 (kenryoku - power)

影響力 (eikyōryoku - influence)

威力 (iryoku - might)

実力 (jitsuryoku - real ability)

勢力 (seiryoku - influence/force)

How to Use It

frequency

High in media and professional contexts; low in casual youth slang.

Common Mistakes

Using 有力 for physical strength. → 強い (tsuyoi)
有力 refers to influence or probability, not muscles.
Using 有力 for strong coffee or food. → 濃い (koi) or 強い (tsuyoi)
有力 is not used for sensory intensity.
Using 有力 to mean 'famous'. → 有名 (yūmei)
You can be influential (有力) without being famous (有名).
Using 有力 for a powerful engine. → 強力 (kyōryoku)
Physical or mechanical force requires 'kyōryoku'.
Using 有力 for 'valid' (like a ticket). → 有効 (yūkō)
Validity and influence are different concepts in Japanese.

Tips

Think 'Weight', not 'Muscle'

When deciding whether to use 有力, ask yourself: Does this person or thing have 'weight' in a social or logical way? If the answer is yes, 有力 is likely correct.

Don't forget the 'Na'

As a Na-adjective, you must use 'na' before nouns. 'Yūryoku na kōho' is correct; 'Yūryoku kōho' is also common as a compound noun.

News Keyword

This is a high-frequency news word. If you hear it, the reporter is identifying the most important person or evidence in the story.

Business Compliment

Calling a company 'yūryoku kigyō' is a great way to show you respect their market position and stability.

Yūryoku vs. Kyōryoku

Remember: Yūryoku = Influence/Probability. Kyōryoku = Force/Intensity. Don't mix them up!

The Power Broker

Understand that 'Yūryokusha' often refers to people who hold power through traditional or local networks in Japan.

Detective Work

In mysteries, '有力な手がかり' (a strong clue) is a common phrase that signifies a turning point in the investigation.

You-Power

Yū (You) + Ryoku (Power) = You have power. You are influential.

Formal Reports

In academic writing, use '有力な説' to describe the prevailing theory you are discussing.

Compound Master

Learn '有力視する' (yūryokushi suru). It's a very 'native' way to say 'to consider someone a favorite' in sports or politics.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'You' (有) having 'Power' (力). If 'You' have 'Power', you are 'Influential'.

Visual Association

Imagine a heavy gold coin (influence/wealth) sitting on a scale. It has 'weight' (有力) and tips the scale in its favor.

Word Web

Politics Candidates Evidence Influence Front-runner Companies Theories Authority

Challenge

Try to find three news headlines today using '有力'. Notice if they are about politics, sports, or a mystery investigation.

Word Origin

Derived from Middle Chinese roots. The first kanji '有' (yū) means 'to have' or 'to exist,' and the second '力' (ryoku) means 'power,' 'strength,' or 'force.'

Original meaning: To possess power or influence.

Sino-Japanese (Kango).

Cultural Context

Calling someone a 'Yūryokusha' is generally respectful but can imply they are part of an 'old boys' network' depending on the tone.

In English, we often use 'powerful' for both physical and social strength. In Japanese, 'Yūryoku' is strictly for the social/logical side.

Japanese political dramas (like 'Change') often feature 'Yūryokusha' fighting for control. Detective Conan frequently uses 'Yūryoku na tegakari' when a breakthrough happens. Sports manga like 'Haikyuu!!' describe top-tier schools as 'Yūryokukō'.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Politics

有力な候補者
有力な派閥
有力な支持基盤
有力視される

Crime Investigation

有力な手がかり
有力な情報
有力な目撃証言
有力な容疑者

Business

有力な取引先
有力な株主
有力な市場
有力な企業

Sports

有力な優勝候補
有力校
有力選手
有力な対抗馬

Academic/Science

有力な学説
有力な仮説
有力な証拠
有力な反論

Conversation Starters

"次期大統領の有力な候補は誰だと思いますか？ (Who do you think is the most promising candidate for the next president?)"

"最近、何か有力な投資情報はありますか？ (Is there any influential investment information lately?)"

"この事件を解決する有力な手がかりは何でしょうか？ (What would be a powerful clue to solve this case?)"

"あなたの業界で最も有力な企業はどこですか？ (Which is the most influential company in your industry?)"

"優勝候補として有力視されているチームはどこですか？ (Which team is being regarded as the favorite for the championship?)"

Journal Prompts

自分にとって「有力な味方」とはどのような人か書いてください。 (Write about what kind of person is a 'powerful ally' to you.)

あなたが知っている「有力者」の影響力について説明してください。 (Explain the influence of an 'influential person' you know.)

将来、自分が有力な立場になったら何をしたいですか？ (What would you want to do if you were in an influential position in the future?)

最近聞いた「有力な説」について、自分の意見を書いてください。 (Write your opinion on a 'leading theory' you heard recently.)

成功するためには「有力な人脈」が必要だと思いますか？ (Do you think 'influential connections' are necessary for success?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No. For strong flavors or smells, use 'tsuyoi' (強い) or 'koi' (濃い). 有力 is only for influence or probability.

It is generally neutral but can be slightly negative if it implies someone is using 'behind-the-scenes' connections unfairly. Usually, it just means someone with a lot of weight in a community.

The most common way is 'mottomo yūryoku na kōho' (最も有力な候補).

有名 means famous. 有力 means influential. A person can be famous but have no power, or powerful but not famous at all.

No. Use 'kyōfū' (強風) or 'kaze ga tsuyoi'. 有力 is not used for nature or weather.

It means 'powerful' or 'convincing'. While it implies validity, the specific word for valid is 'yūkō' (有効).

It's common when discussing news, sports, or work, but you wouldn't use it to describe your friends' physical strength or a strong movie.

Technically '有力に' (yūryoku ni), but it is rarely used. People usually say 'yūryoku na [noun]' or 'yūryokushi suru'.

No, use 'tsuyoi nioi'. 有力 is only for social/logical contexts.

It means 'regarding someone/something as a strong candidate.' It's very common in media.