1.
to do one's best, to try hard
To make a strong effort, to work hard toward a goal. One of the most commonly used words of encouragement in Japanese.
2.
to persevere, to hang in there
To persist despite difficulties, to not give up.
TRANSITIVITY: 自動詞 (intransitive). Pattern: 頑張る (try hard) / Xを頑張る (work hard at X—less common).
ASPECT: ている indicates ongoing effort. 頑張っている = 'is working hard' or 'has been trying hard.'
COMMON PATTERNS:
- 頑張って！ (Good luck! Hang in there!)
- 頑張ってください (Please do your best—polite)
- 頑張ります (I'll do my best)
- 頑張れ！ (Go for it!—imperative, casual)
- もっと頑張る (try harder)
CULTURAL NOTE: 頑張って is one of the most common expressions of encouragement in Japanese. It's used in a wide variety of situations—before exams, during sports, at work, etc. However, be careful using it with someone who is already struggling or exhausted, as it might add pressure.
REGISTER: Neutral. The expression 頑張って can feel casual while 頑張ってください is polite.