Don't give up
Perseverance
Literalmente: Do not (negative command) give (transfer) up (directionally higher)
Use this phrase to support anyone facing a challenge, from small tasks to big life goals.
En 15 segundos
- A phrase used to encourage someone to keep trying.
- Works in both personal and professional supportive contexts.
- Focuses on persistence and staying positive during challenges.
Significado
This phrase is a warm way to tell someone to keep trying. It means you should not stop working toward your goal, even if things are difficult right now.
Ejemplos clave
3 de 6Encouraging a friend learning a language
I know English grammar is hard, but don't give up!
I know English grammar is hard, but don't give up!
Texting a teammate after a loss
We lost the game today, but don't give up on the season.
We lost the game today, but don't give up on the season.
Professional encouragement from a manager
This project is difficult, but don't give up; we are almost there.
This project is difficult, but don't give up; we are almost there.
Contexto cultural
This phrase is deeply rooted in the 'American Dream' and the Western ideal of grit. It became a staple of 20th-century motivational culture, appearing in everything from Olympic commentary to iconic pop ballads like Peter Gabriel's 'Don't Give Up.' It reflects a society that values individual persistence over almost anything else.
Add 'Just'
Adding 'just' makes it sound softer and more encouraging: 'Just don't give up!'
Don't confuse with 'Give it up'
'Give it up' usually means 'clap for someone' or 'stop doing something.' It's the opposite of what you want!
En 15 segundos
- A phrase used to encourage someone to keep trying.
- Works in both personal and professional supportive contexts.
- Focuses on persistence and staying positive during challenges.
What It Means
Don't give up is the ultimate English cheer. It is a simple way to say 'keep going.' Imagine you are climbing a mountain. Your legs hurt. You want to sit down and quit. A friend looks at you and says, Don't give up! It means they believe you can finish the journey. It is about staying strong when life gets messy.
How To Use It
You can use this phrase as a standalone sentence. It works great as a text message or a verbal encouragement. You can also add on if you are talking about a specific thing or person. For example, Don't give up on your dreams. It is very flexible. You can say it to a child learning to ride a bike. You can say it to a CEO facing a tough quarter. It is a universal boost of energy.
When To Use It
Use it when you see someone struggling. If your friend is studying for a hard exam, say it. If a coworker is frustrated with a computer bug, say it. It is perfect for emotional moments too. If someone is sad about a breakup, it reminds them to stay hopeful. It is a very positive, supportive phrase for almost any difficult situation.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use it if someone is in actual danger. If a building is on fire, don't tell them Don't give up—tell them to run! Also, be careful if someone is making a healthy choice to quit something. If a friend finally quits a toxic job, saying Don't give up might sound like you want them to stay in a bad place. Context is everything.
Cultural Background
Western culture, especially in the US and UK, loves the 'underdog' story. We celebrate people who fail many times but keep trying. This phrase is part of that 'can-do' spirit. It is found in thousands of pop songs, movies, and sports speeches. It is the verbal version of a high-five when you are tired.
Common Variations
You might hear people say Keep at it or Hang in there. If someone is being very casual, they might say Stick with it. In sports, you often hear Keep your head up. All of these share the same DNA as Don't give up. They all focus on the beauty of perseverance.
Notas de uso
This phrase is neutral and safe for almost any situation. The only 'gotcha' is confusing it with 'give in' (which means to surrender to someone else's demands) or 'give it up' (which can mean to applaud).
Add 'Just'
Adding 'just' makes it sound softer and more encouraging: 'Just don't give up!'
Don't confuse with 'Give it up'
'Give it up' usually means 'clap for someone' or 'stop doing something.' It's the opposite of what you want!
The 'Never' Upgrade
If you want to be extra dramatic or powerful, say 'Never give up.' It's a favorite of movie heroes.
Ejemplos
6I know English grammar is hard, but don't give up!
I know English grammar is hard, but don't give up!
Used here to provide motivation during a long-term task.
We lost the game today, but don't give up on the season.
We lost the game today, but don't give up on the season.
The speaker uses 'on' to specify what not to quit.
This project is difficult, but don't give up; we are almost there.
This project is difficult, but don't give up; we are almost there.
Appropriate for work when the tone is supportive.
I saw you looking at that cake. Don't give up now!
I saw you looking at that cake. Don't give up now!
A lighthearted way to remind someone of their goals.
The right job is out there, just don't give up.
The right job is out there, just don't give up.
Very common in emotional, intimate conversations.
Whatever happens, don't give up on yourself.
Whatever happens, don't give up on yourself.
A deep, philosophical use of the phrase.
Ponte a prueba
Choose the correct preposition to complete the sentence.
Don't give up ___ your dreams.
We use 'on' after 'don't give up' when we mention a specific goal or person.
Which response is the most encouraging?
Friend: 'This puzzle is too hard!' You: '___!'
'Don't give up' is the standard way to encourage someone to keep trying.
🎉 Puntuación: /2
Ayudas visuales
Formality of 'Don't give up'
Texting a friend about a video game.
Don't give up, dude!
A teacher talking to a student.
Don't give up on this math problem.
A speech at a graduation ceremony.
To the class of 2024: Don't give up.
Where to use 'Don't give up'
Gym/Sports
One more lap!
Studying
Final exams week.
Career
After a failed interview.
Hobbies
Learning guitar.
Preguntas frecuentes
11 preguntasIt means you should keep trying and not stop what you are doing. For example, if you are learning to cook, your friend might say Don't give up when you burn a meal.
Yes, it is very common in professional settings to motivate a team. You might hear a manager say, The deadline is close, so don't give up now!
Absolutely. It is a very common way to support a friend via text. You can even use the emoji 💪 after it.
Never give up is stronger and more permanent. Don't give up is usually about a specific situation happening right now.
Usually no, but if someone is very frustrated, they might find it annoying. Use a soft, kind voice to make sure it sounds like support.
This means 'please keep believing in me' or 'don't stop supporting me.' It is often used in romantic or close personal relationships.
No, that is a mistake. We always use on for the object, like Don't give up on your art.
No, it is standard English. It is a neutral phrasal verb that everyone from children to presidents uses.
You can say Thanks, I'll try or I won't! It shows you appreciate their support.
In English, 'up' often implies completion or intensity. In this case, 'giving up' means completely surrendering your effort.
Usually, we say give up for habits, like give up smoking. But we don't say Don't give up smoking unless we want them to keep smoking!
Frases relacionadas
Hang in there
Wait and stay patient during a difficult time.
Keep it up
Continue doing the good work you are already doing.
Stay strong
Maintain your emotional or physical strength.
Keep your chin up
Try to stay happy despite bad news.
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