What does it mean word for word?
決して (Kesshite) means never or by no means and is used with a negative verb. あきらめない (akiramenai) is the negative form of the verb meaning to give up, so together they say will never give up.
Which one should you use?
絶対に諦めない uses zettai ni, absolutely, instead of kesshite and is a common, more conversational way to show strong determination. どんなことがあっても、あきらめないよ。 means I won't give up, no matter what. Other set expressions include a formal line meaning I will persist until the end and a playful one meaning giving up is not in my vocabulary.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
決してあきらめない is plain and suits friends or speaking to yourself. 絶対に諦めない is colloquial. どんなことがあっても、あきらめないよ。 is informal.
How does it change in a sentence?
Kesshite must be followed by a negative verb, which is why the sentence ends with the negative form あきらめない rather than the plain verb.
How do you pronounce it?
It is pronounced Kesshite akiramenai. The double s in Kesshite is held slightly longer, and the i after it is very soft.
Did you know?
- The word あきらめる ('to give up') originally meant 'to open up' or 'to clarify' in the context of seeing the truth of a situation. It evolved to mean giving up when one realizes a goal is truly impossible to achieve.
- In Japanese sports and anime, you will often hear あきらめたらそこで試合終了ですよ ('If you give up, the game is over right there'). This famous line from the film Slam Dunk has become a cultural shorthand for perseverance.
- In Japanese 'ganbare' culture, phrases like 絶対に諦めない ('zettai ni akiramenai') are often used as public vows. In these contexts, the statement is not just a personal goal but a social contract with the people cheering for you.
Examples in context
- 私は決してあきらめない。Watashi wa kesshite akiramenai.I will never give up.
- どんなに辛くても、決してあきらめない。Donna ni tsurakutemo, kesshite akiramenai.No matter how hard it gets, I will never give up.
Example conversation
A student and a mentor talking about a difficult exam.
- 大翔 Hiroto試験はとても難しいよ。Shiken wa totemo muzukashii yo.The exam is very difficult.
- 陽葵 Himari大丈夫、私は決してあきらめない。Daijoubu, watashi wa kesshite akiramenai.It's okay, I will never give up.
- 大翔 Hirotoその意気だ、陽葵。Sono iki da, Himari.That's the spirit, Himari.
- 陽葵 Himariはい、頑張ります！Hai, ganbarimasu!Yes, I will do my best!
