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

Dàjiā dōu yào jiāyóu!

Everyone needs to keep going!

比赛时我们互相加油

Bǐsài shí wǒmen hùxiāng jiāyóu.

During the competition, we cheer each other on.

他在学习上需要多加加油

Tā zài xuéxí shàng xūyào duō jiāyóu.

He needs to put in more effort in his studies.

尽管困难重重,我们还是要继续加油

Jǐnguǎn kùnnán chóngchóng, wǒmen háishì yào jìxù jiāyóu.

Despite numerous difficulties, we still have to keep pushing forward.

在关键时刻,教练大声喊道:“加油,不要放弃!”

Zài guānjiàn shíkè, jiàoliàn dàshēng hǎndào: "Jiāyóu, bùyào fàngqì!"

At the critical moment, the coach shouted loudly: "Come on, don't give up!"

Word Definition - 加油

jiā yóu to add oil; to top up with gas; to refuel; to accelerate; to step on the gas; (fig.) to make an extra effort; to cheer sb on

Individual Character Details