Translation guide
Expressions for cheering, encouraging, or showing support in Japanese, from casual shouts to formal written messages.
To cheer someone on loudly, like at a sports game or competition.
The most common cheer, meaning 'Do your best!' or 'Go for it!'. Used for individuals or teams.
Go for it! Just a little more!
From English 'hooray', used in organized cheering, often repeated rhythmically.
Casual, energetic cheer meaning 'Go go!'.
To give words of encouragement to a friend, colleague, or family member.
Means 'I'm rooting for you' or 'I'm supporting you'. Warm and natural.
To describe the act of cheering in a coordinated way, like a cheer squad.
To comfort or lift someone's spirits when they are down.
Means 'Cheer up' or 'Keep your chin up'. Used when someone is sad or discouraged.
To express encouragement in writing, such as on banners or social media.
Polite form of 'I'm supporting you'. Suitable for messages, letters, or banners.
While がんばって is common, it can sound insensitive if someone is already trying their best or facing a serious hardship. In such cases, 応援してる or 無理しないで (Don't push yourself too hard) may be more appropriate.
Don't overdo it.
応援 is the broader term for support, including silent support. 声援 specifically means vocal cheering or shouts.
Hooray! Hooray!
いけいけ！そこでシュートだ！
Go go! Shoot from there!
I'm rooting for you on your exam.
The standard 'Do your best' or 'Good luck'. Used in many situations.
Good luck with your presentation tomorrow.
From English 'fight', used as a casual cheer meaning 'You can do it!'.
You can do it! It'll work out.
General noun for cheering, support, or rooting. Often used in compounds.
The cheering squad cheered in unison.
Specifically refers to vocal cheering or shouts of encouragement.
The cheers from the crowd gave the players strength.
Cheer up. You'll have another chance.
Verb meaning 'to encourage' or 'to cheer up'. More formal than 元気出して.
I wrote a letter to cheer up my friend.
I'm always cheering for you.
Formal expression meaning 'I wish you success' or 'Good luck in your efforts'. Used in written form.
I wish you the best of luck.