How to Say “Good Luck” in Japanese (Without Sounding Like a Total Weeb)

Have you ever found yourself wanting to wish someone good luck in Japanese, only to realize you have no idea what to say? Maybe you just shouted “Sayonara!” (which, by the way, does not mean good luck) and hoped for the best? Don’t worry—I’ve been there. Let’s fix that.

Japanese, like most things in Japan, has layers of meaning, cultural nuance, and an unspoken rule that you should probably bow while saying it. But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. We’ll break it down in a way that makes sense, is fun, and keeps you from accidentally telling someone to “please die.”

The Most Common Way: 頑張って (Ganbatte!)

If you remember nothing else from this post, remember ganbatte (頑張って). This is your Swiss Army knife of encouragement.

✅ You can say it to your friend before a big test.
✅ You can say it to your coworker before a stressful presentation.
✅ You can even yell it at your dog if he looks like he’s about to make a daring jump onto the couch. (Though he might just stare at you in confusion.)

Ganbatte (or its slightly more polite form, ganbatte kudasai 頑張ってください) means do your best or hang in there. It’s not exactly “good luck” in the Western sense, but in Japan, effort is valued just as much as (if not more than) pure luck.

Imagine telling your friend, “You got this!” rather than “May the gods be ever in your favor.” That’s the vibe of ganbatte.

But wait… what if someone is about to run a marathon or take a massive exam and ‘do your best’ just doesn’t cut it?

Other Ways to Say Good Luck in Japanese (Depending on the Situation)

Because Japan doesn’t like one-size-fits-all solutions (except maybe for vending machines), here are a few alternatives:

1. 幸運を祈ります (Kōun o inorimasu) – “I pray for your good fortune”

This is more of a formal, priest-giving-you-a-blessing kind of good luck. You’d use this in situations like:

• Wishing someone luck on a job interview
• Talking to your boss (but, like, not in a casual ‘good luck, dude’ way—more of a respectful ‘may good fortune be upon you’ vibe)
• When you want to sound like an elegant samurai from an old movie

But in everyday conversation? Too stiff. Stick to ganbatte unless you’re about to enter battle.

2. ファイト! (Faito!) – “Fight!”

If you’ve ever watched anime, you’ve probably heard this one. Faito! is the Japanified version of the English word fight—but don’t worry, it’s not telling someone to start a brawl.

Think of it as “Go get ’em!” or “You got this!” It’s mostly used in:

• Sports competitions (yell it at your favorite sumo wrestler!)
• Cheerleading moments (Faito! Faito! Faito!)
• When you want to sound cute and slightly dramatic

3. うまくいきますように (Umaku ikimasu yō ni) – “I hope it goes well”

This one is a bit of a mouthful, but it’s super useful in situations where ganbatte might not quite fit.

For example:

• Your friend is about to take their driving test (Ganbatte! works, but this feels softer and more caring.)
• Your friend just sent in a job application (Good luck! I hope it goes well!)
• Your friend is about to ask their crush out (We need all the luck in the world for this one.)

This phrase is gentler and more wishful—less about effort, more about fate.

What NOT to Say (Unless You Want Awkward Silence)

Some phrases might look like they mean good luck, but trust me, they do not work that way. Here’s what to avoid:

❌ 運がいいですね！(Un ga ii desu ne!) – “You have good luck!”
This means you are lucky, not good luck! If someone wins the lottery, then you can say this.

❌ がんばりなさい! (Ganbari nasai!) – “Do your best!” (But in a bossy way)
This is something a strict teacher or coach would say. Unless you’re coaching a karate team, stick to ganbatte.

The Art of Saying “Good Luck” Without Words

Believe it or not, you don’t always need to say the words. Sometimes, a well-placed nod, a thumbs-up, or even just intense eye contact (if done correctly and not in a serial killer way) can convey the message just as well.

In Japan, subtle encouragement is a thing. You’ll see people bow slightly and say nothing, or maybe just give a quiet “un” (a simple yes sound) to show support. It’s the less is more approach, and honestly? It works.

Final Thoughts (and a Lucky Charm)

So, next time you want to wish someone good luck in Japanese, remember:

• Ganbatte! – The go-to phrase for all occasions
• Kōun o inorimasu – The formal blessing-type luck
• Faito! – If you’re feeling energetic or dramatic
• Umaku ikimasu yō ni – If you want to sound thoughtful

And if all else fails? Just smile, bow slightly, and pretend you totally know what you’re doing.

Now go out there and use your new Japanese luck-boosting powers wisely! 🎌

What’s your favorite way to say good luck in another language? Drop it in the comments! (Or just say ganbatte—I’ll get the message.)