What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of kesshite, meaning "never" and akiramenaide, meaning "don't give up" or "don't abandon".
Which one should you use?
While 決して諦めないで is the default form, you may encounter other variations: 諦めるなよ is an informal way to say "never give up" and めげるな is an informal way to say "never give up" that literally means "don't be discouraged".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
For a more polite or formal way to say "please never give up", you can use 決して諦めないでください. Conversely, 決して諦めるな is a much stronger, more blunt and often masculine command. The forms 諦めるなよ and めげるな are both informal.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form akiramenaide is the negative te-form of the verb akirameru, which functions as a soft command or request.
How do you pronounce it?
kesshite akiramenaide
When do people say it?
The Japanese proverb 七転び八起き expresses a similar sentiment, meaning "fall down seven times, get up eight".
Did you know?
- In professional settings, telling a superior 諦めないでください could be seen as condescending because it implies the superior is currently in a state of failure.
- The word めげる, found in the phrase めげるな, shares a root with words describing things that are crushed or bent out of shape.
- In Japanese culture, the concept of resilience is often tied to the idea of 'endurance' or 'perseverance' (gaman), which is sometimes considered more virtuous than simply 'not giving up'.
Examples in context
- 彼は苦しい状況でも、諦めるなと言っています。Even in difficult situations, he keeps saying, 'never give up.'
- 夢を叶えるためには、決して諦めずに頑張りましょう。In order to achieve your dreams, let's never give up and do our best.
- もっと頑張れ！諦めるなよ！Keep going! Never give up!
- 失敗してもめげるな！次はうまくいくよ。Don't be discouraged by failure! The next time will be a success!
- 決して諦めないでください。Kesshite akiramenaide kudasai.Please never give up.
Example conversation
Hiroto encourages Himari before a big sports match.
- 大翔 Hiroto緊張してる？kinchou shiteru?Are you nervous?
- 陽葵 Himariうん、勝てるか心配だよ。un, kateru ka shinpai dayo.Yeah, I'm worried if I can win.
- 大翔 Hiroto大丈夫。最後まで決して諦めないで。daijoubu. saigo made kesshite akiramenaide.It's okay. Never give up until the end.
- 陽葵 Himariありがとう、頑張るね！arigatou, ganbaru ne!Thanks, I'll do my best!
