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#93

Everyday Japanese Encouragement : How to Use “Ganbaru” Naturally

by Zaj Banzon

Don’t know what to say to your friend who’s feeling down or nervous?

I have just the perfect word for you! — “ganbatte.”

You’ll hear it before a test, on the first day of work, or even just when someone needs a little push. It's one of the most common and heartfelt expressions in Japanese, used to show support, encouragement, and care.

In this blog, we’ll break down what “ganbaru” really means and explore the many forms it takes in everyday life.

What does “Ganbaru” mean?

The word 頑張る (ganbaru) means :

to do your best
to keep going
to not give up

It’s not about being perfect — it’s about showing effort, persistence, and a strong will to keep going. People say it to encourage themselves and others, especially during challenging or new situations—like starting at a new school, preparing for university entrance exams, or training for a sports tournament.

“Ganbatte”-When Cheering for Someone Else

頑張って (ganbatte) is probably the most common form you’ll hear.

It’s used to cheer someone on — kind of like saying “Good luck!” or “You got this!” in English.

You might hear it :

Before an exam
At a sports festival
On someone’s first day at work
Before a big move or change

It’s casual and friendly, so it’s perfect between friends, classmates, or coworkers.

Variants :

Ganbatte ne — a softer, friendly tone;
Ganbatte kudasai — polite, great for coworkers, teachers, or people you don’t know well;
Ganbare! — short and strong! Often used at sporting events or when shouting encouragement from the sidelines. It feels more direct and forceful than “ganbatte.”

“Ganbarimasu”-When Talking About Yourself

頑張ります (ganbarimasu) is the polite version, used when you yourself are saying “I’ll do my best.”

For example :

「明日の面接、頑張ります！」= “I’ll do my best at tomorrow’s interview.”
「皆さんの期待に応えられるよう、頑張ります。」= “I’ll do my best to meet everyone’s expectations.”

It’s polite, positive, and appropriate in both casual and formal settings.

You might say this in work emails, speeches, or when introducing yourself at a new job. It shows commitment and a willingness to try hard — without sounding arrogant.

Other polite or formal variations include :

「努力いたします」(I will strive hard)
「精一杯努めさせていただきます」(I will do my utmost)
「最善を尽くします」(I will give it my best)
「全力で取り組みます」(I will tackle this with all my strength)

「一生懸命頑張ります」(I will try my very best)

“Ganbatta ne”-When You Want to Acknowledge Someone’s Effort

Once everything’s over, and someone has already done their best — that’s when you say :

「頑張ったね」= “You did your best.”

This phrase is gentle and affirming. It recognizes someone’s effort, not just the result.

You might say it :

After someone finishes a hard task : 「今日一日、頑張ったね。」
When comforting a friend who’s had a long week : 「本当に頑張ったと思うよ。」
To a child who tried their best at school or sports : 「よく頑張ったね。」

You can also say :

「よく頑張った！」 = “You really gave it your all!”

It’s a bit more upbeat and sounds encouraging and warm — often used by parents, teachers, or friends.

Whether you're miles away from home working overseas, adjusting to life in Japan, or just doing your best to get through a long week — “ganbaru” captures that everyday strength.

It’s the spirit of doing your best, no matter what life throws at you. People say “ganbatte” before a test, at work, or even just to lift someone’s mood.

And when someone says “ganbatte”, it’s more than just encouragement. It means “I see you. I believe in you.”

So next time a friend back home or a kabayan needs a little motivation, you’ll know exactly what to say — and maybe even how to say it in Japanese.

Posted : 06 August 2025