頑張って
ganbatte[ɡã̠mba̠t̚te̞]
The Japanese expression 頑張って (ganbatte) means to encourage someone to do their best or keep trying hard.
This phrase is used to cheer someone on before a challenge, such as an exam, a sports match or a difficult task.
Which one should you use?
While ganbatte is a common way to encourage someone, ganbare is the imperative form and sounds much more forceful or commanding, often used by spectators at sports events.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase ganbatte is the informal, te-form of the verb and adding kudasai makes it a polite request to do one's best.
How do you pronounce it?
ganbatte
Did you know?
- When someone says ganbatte to you, the standard response is not 'thank you', but often ganbarimasu, meaning 'I will do my best'.
- If you are speaking to a superior, such as a boss or a teacher, you should never use ganbatte to encourage them. Since it can sound like you are telling them how to do their job, it is better to use much more formal, humble expressions of support.
- While ganbatte is encouraging, saying it to someone who is already exhausted or suffering from a tragedy can sometimes feel insensitive, as it implies they just need to try harder.
Examples in context
- 試験、頑張って！Shiken, ganbatte!Good luck on your exam!
- 明日も頑張ってね。Ashita mo ganbatte ne.Do your best tomorrow too.
Example conversation
Hiroto is cheering for Misaki before her job interview.
- 大翔 Hiroto面接、頑張ってね！Mensetsu, ganbatte ne!Good luck with your interview!
- 美咲 Misakiありがとう。緊張するよ。Arigatou. Kinchou suru yo.Thanks. I'm nervous.
- 大翔 Hiroto美咲なら大丈夫だよ。Misaki nara daijoubu dayo.You'll be fine, Misaki.
- 美咲 Misaki全力で頑張るね。Zenryoku de ganbaru ne.I'll do my absolute best.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry 頑張って, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
