Translation guide
In Japanese, expressing 'good luck' depends heavily on context: casual encouragement, formal well-wishing, or specific situations like before an exam or performance. The most common phrase is 頑張って (ganbatte), but there are many alternatives.
Good luck! (casual)
Good luck! (polite)
Cheering someone on in everyday situations, like before a test, game, or challenge.
The most common way to say 'good luck' or 'do your best'. Used among friends, family, and peers.
Good luck on your exam.
Good luck in tomorrow's game!
A more forceful, masculine-sounding imperative. Often used in sports or by close male friends.
Go for it! Almost there!
From English 'fight'. A casual, energetic cheer, common in sports or among young people.
Wishing someone well in a respectful manner, such as to a superior, client, or in a formal setting.
Wishing someone success specifically before a stage performance, concert, or important presentation.
Expressing 'good luck' as a general wish for fortune, not necessarily tied to effort.
Direct translation of 'I wish you good luck'. Used when luck itself is the focus, like in gambling or chance events.
How to reply when someone wishes you good luck.
While 頑張って is versatile, it implies the person needs to put in effort. In situations where luck is purely chance (e.g., lottery), 幸運を祈る is more appropriate. Also, avoid using it with someone who is sick or exhausted, as it can sound like 'try harder' when they need rest.
Take care (to a sick person).
頑張って focuses on the person's effort and perseverance. 幸運を祈る focuses on external luck or fortune. Use the former for exams, sports, work; use the latter for gambling, contests of chance, or when you want to emphasize fate.
You can do it!
Good luck with your new job.
A very formal expression meaning 'I pray for your success'. Used in speeches or written messages.
I wish you all the best of luck.
I'm wishing you success in your presentation.
A softer, more personal wish meaning 'I hope it goes well'. Can be used in various situations.
I hope your presentation goes well tomorrow.
I wish you good luck on winning the lottery.
The English loanword 'good luck'. Used casually, often in written form or by younger people.
Simply 'thank you'. The most natural response.
A: Good luck. B: Thanks.
'I'll do my best.' A humble and determined response.
A: Good luck on the exam. B: Yes, I'll do my best!
Good luck with the interview (do your best).
I wish you luck in the draw.