‘Rooting for you’: Definition, Meaning, and Examples

By Amy Gilmore, updated on October 28, 2022

When someone says they are ‘rooting for you’ it means they are wishing you success. The saying comes from people rooting for someone at a game or performance. But, you can use the term to express that you are supporting someone whether or not you are physically cheering for them. 

Keep reading to learn more about the origin, meaning, and ways to use this idiom. This guide provides helpful usage tips, sample sentences, and alternative phrases to show your support. 

What are the Meanings of ‘Rooting for You’?

Unlike many other sayings, ‘rooting for you’ always implies that someone supports you. They want you to succeed in your performance, job, or other venture. 

The term originated from fans supporting teams or performers, and it is often said when someone is engaging in a competition. However, it does not necessarily mean the person will physically cheer you on. 

They may not even be present. So, the idiom does not necessarily indicate that someone will be physically cheering you on, although it depends on the usage. 

When Do People Write or Say ‘Rooting for You’?

You can tell someone you are rooting for them whenever you wish for their success. Regardless of what activity they are engaging in. 

However, people frequently use the term when a person or group is: 

  • Interviewing for a new job. 
  • Starting a new job. 
  • Buying a house. 
  • Completing a marathon. 
  • Starring in a play. 
  • Applying to college. 
  • Getting their first apartment. 
  • Starting a new project. 
  • Working towards a fitness goal. 
  • Having a medical procedure. 
  • Gets a promotion. 
  • Runs for political office. 

Examples of ‘Rooting for You’ in a Sentence

You can use this saying to show your support literally and metaphorically. 

Literal Uses

You can use the term to indicate that someone received support or you will be supporting someone in person by saying something like: 

  • We will be ‘rooting for you’ tonight at your performance. 
  • The entire audience was ‘rooting for you.’ 
  • When you are up to bat, the entire team will be ‘rooting for you’. 
  • The sound inside the stadium was earth-shaking when your fans started ‘rooting for you.’

Metaphorical Uses

You can also use the term to indicate that you are cheering someone on even if you are not physically present while they are completing a goal. For example: 

  • Going back to school to get your law degree won’t be easy, but I will be ‘rooting for you.’
  • We are ‘rooting for you’ in the upcoming election. 
  • The winners will not be announced next month, but I am ‘rooting for you.
  • I have seen your work and am ‘rooting for you.’
  • I am happy to see that you got the position. I was ‘rooting for you.’
  • You were my top pick, so I have been ‘rooting for you.’ 

Alternative Terms to Show Support

‘Rooting for you’ is a term you can use in nearly any scenario. It is appropriate in business emails, text messages, and professional conversations. However, there may be an alternative term that better conveys your message. So, take a look at these other options: 

  • You are in my prayers.
  • Break a leg. 
  • You will be in our thoughts. 
  • We are cheering for you. 
  • You have our unwavering support. 
  • I am your biggest fan. 
  • We are pulling for you.
  • I am here for you.

For business communications, saying something like ‘rooting for you’ is a better option than a religious sentiment like, ‘ill be praying for you’ or ‘I am praying for your success.’ Not everyone is spiritual or religious. So, when you do not know someone’s faith, it is better to use a term that does not have a religious connotation. 

Final Thoughts on Using ‘Rooting for You’

‘Rooting for you’ is always a nice thing to say to someone when trying to accomplish something. It tells them they have your support regardless of whether you are physically present while they work towards their goal. 

However, you can also use the term to tell someone that you will be physically cheering them on while they are competing. Furthermore, you can tell someone you are rooting for them in a formal email, text message, or written note. 

To ensure that you use idioms like ‘pushing p,’ ‘cutting corners,' and 'who dares wins,' bookmark writingtips.org so you can verify unclear meanings. 

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Written By:
Amy Gilmore
Amy Gilmore is one of the lead freelance writers for WritingTips.org. She has been a professional writer and editor for the past eight years. She developed a love of language arts and literature in school and decided to become a professional freelance writer after a demanding career in real estate. Amy is constantly learning to become a better writer and loves sharing tips with other writers who want to do the same.

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