Definition
Synonym of let's go: a cheer of encouragement, support, etc.
Origins
Calque of Chinese 加油 (jiāyóu), particularly in Hong Kong contexts via its Cantonese pronunciation gaa1 jau4-2, sometimes credited to shouts of support during the Macau Grand Prix. Compare cooking with gas, gas up, fuel up, etc.
Also Said As
- let's go
How People Actually Use It
A Chinese expression of encouragement, often heard during sporting events or right before exams. Chinese: 加油 Mandarin: Jia1 You2 Cantonese: Ga1 Yau4
"P1: I'm so screwed for this final. I haven't studied all semester. P2: You'll do fine. Add oil! or P1: (participating in a sporting event) P2: GA1 YAU4! GA1 YAU4!"
Source: Urban Dictionary