ánimo
“ánimo” means “Cheer up!” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
Cheer up!, Come on!
Also: You got this!, Keep going!
📝 In Action
Perdí el partido. — ¡Ánimo! La próxima vez ganas.
A1I lost the game. — Cheer up! You'll win next time.
Tienes que estudiar para el examen. ¡Ánimo!
A2You have to study for the exam. Come on!
spirit, mood
Also: courage, energy
📝 In Action
No tengo mucho ánimo para ir a trabajar hoy.
A2I don't have much energy/spirit to go to work today.
El doctor le dio ánimos para su recuperación.
B1The doctor gave him encouragement for his recovery.
A pesar de todo, mantuvo el ánimo alto.
B2Despite everything, he kept his spirits high.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: ánimo
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'ánimo' as a quick exclamation to motivate someone?
📚 More Resources
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes directly from the Latin word *animus*, which meant 'spirit,' 'mind,' or 'soul.' It is related to the English words 'animate' and 'animation,' referring to things that have life or spirit.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'ánimo' and 'animo'?
The accent mark is very important! 'Ánimo' (accented on the first syllable) is the noun meaning 'spirit' or the interjection 'Cheer up!'. 'Animo' (unaccented) is the verb form 'I encourage' or 'I animate' (the 'yo' form of the verb 'animar').
Can I use 'ánimo' in the plural?
Yes, but usually only when referring to acts of encouragement or cheering. For instance, 'Recibió muchos ánimos de sus amigos' (He received a lot of encouragement from his friends). When talking about a general state of mind, we usually use the singular: 'Su ánimo es bueno' (His mood is good).