About
The word "加油" is formed through a vivid conceptual metaphor originating from the literal act of adding fuel. The first character, 加 (jiā), means "to add", and the second, 油 (yóu), means "oil" or "fuel". It visually evokes the historical image of manually pouring oil into a lamp to keep it burning brighter or adding fuel to a fire or engine to increase its power and momentum. This tangible action of providing essential sustenance to maintain or boost energy was metaphorically extended to the human spirit, transforming into a universal exhortation to persevere, put in more effort, and bolster one's vigor, as if stoking an internal fire.
Example Sentences Hide
大家都要加油!
比赛时我们互相加油。
他在学习上需要多加加油。
尽管困难重重,我们还是要继续加油。
在关键时刻,教练大声喊道:“加油,不要放弃!”