Translation guide
Encouragement to persist in an effort or task. Japanese uses various expressions depending on formality, relationship, and context.
Cheering someone on to continue what they are doing, similar to 'keep going' or 'don't give up'.
The most common and versatile encouragement. Literally 'do your best', used in many situations.
Keep at it with your exam studies!
Literally 'at that pace/rhythm', used to encourage someone to continue as they are doing well.
Keep at it like that.
Directly means 'don't give up'. Stronger and more direct than 頑張って.
Keep at it until the end!
Encouraging someone in a formal setting, such as a workplace or to a superior.
Polite form of 頑張って. Suitable for colleagues, acquaintances, or when showing respect.
Keep at it with the project.
Literally 'please continue to do your best'. Used when someone has been working hard and you want them to keep going.
Cheering on friends or close acquaintances in a relaxed way.
Telling someone to continue a specific activity or routine without stopping.
Do not translate 'keep at it' literally as それを保つ or similar. Use the natural expressions above.
頑張って is softer and more polite; がんばれ is a strong, direct cheer. Use 頑張って in most situations, and がんばれ with close friends or in sports.
Keep at it. I'm rooting for you.