When combined, 硬实力 (yìng shílì) literally translates to “Hard-Solid-Power,” painting a clear picture of tangible, measurable, and unyielding strength.
The concept of “hard power” was originally coined by American political scientist Joseph Nye, and 硬实力 (yìng shílì) is a direct loan translation. While the idea isn't originally Chinese, its discussion is central to understanding China's modern strategic thinking. For much of the late 20th and early 21st centuries, China's national policy focused intensely on building its 硬实力. This meant prioritizing economic growth (GDP) and modernizing its military. The spectacular results of this focus are evident today. The key cultural dynamic in China now involves the relationship between 硬实力 and its counterpart, 软实力 (ruǎn shílì), or “soft power” (cultural appeal, diplomacy, political values). There is a widespread national discussion that while China's 硬实力 is now world-class, its 软实力 lags behind. Therefore, a major goal for the Chinese government is to cultivate its cultural and diplomatic influence to match its economic and military might, achieving a balance known as 综合国力 (zōnghé guólì) or “Comprehensive National Power.” This contrasts with Western discourse, where “hard power” is often discussed as one of several tools. In China, the explicit goal of building 硬实力 first, then catching up with 软实力, has been a more overt and sequential national strategy.
硬实力 is a formal and analytical term. You are highly unlikely to hear it in casual daily conversation, like when chatting about groceries or hobbies.