How do I say 'work hard / keep going'?

加油 is one of the most-used phrases in Chinese — you hear it at sports games (like “let’s go!”), before exams, in workplaces, during tough conversations, and as a casual sign-off in messages. It literally means “add oil/fuel” — the metaphor is refueling an engine to keep going.

The versatility is remarkable:

• Sports: 中国队加油！(Go China!)
• Exams: 考试加油！(Good luck on the exam!)
• Work: 项目加油！(Push through on the project!)
• Life: 生活加油！(Keep going in life!)
• Casual: 加油哦～ (You’ve got this~)

The distinction between 加油 and 努力: 加油 is the cheer from the sidelines; 努力 is the work itself. You 加油 someone else; you 努力 yourself. 加油 is an exhortation; 努力 is a description or commitment.

坚持住 is for the harder moments — when someone is genuinely struggling and considering giving up. It means “hold on, don’t let go.” It is more targeted and more emotionally present than the all-purpose 加油.

The phrase 辛苦了 (you’ve worked hard) often pairs with 加油: acknowledge the effort already made, then encourage the effort ahead. Together they form a complete emotional support package.