root for

USAGE SUMMARY

"root for" is a valid phrase in written English.
It means to vocally show support for someone or something. For example, "I'm rooting for the home team to win the championship!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Whom to root for?

The New Yorker

Root for the Naftas.

The New York Times

Who does he root for?

The New Yorker

You root for them both.

The New York Times

Both easy to root for.

The New York Times

Gotta root for the favorites….

The New Yorker

"I always root for them.

The New York Times - Sports

Usually, I root for losers.

The New Yorker

Now, who to root for?

The New Yorker

You can root for everyone.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

You rooted for them.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "root for" when you want to express enthusiastic support for a person, team, or cause. It suggests a sense of optimism and hope for a positive outcome.

Common error

While "root for" implies support, it's less formal than a pledge of allegiance or a binding agreement. Avoid using it in contexts where a strong, unwavering commitment is required.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "root for" is as a phrasal verb. It expresses the action of showing support or encouragement for someone or something. As Ludwig AI clarifies, it means to vocally show support for someone or something. Examples from Ludwig showcase its usage in various contexts, like supporting a sports team or hoping for a positive outcome.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Wiki

4%

Huffington Post

7%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrasal verb "root for" signifies enthusiastic support and hope for someone or something. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and prevalence in diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media. While generally neutral in register, it's essential to understand the intensity of support it conveys. Alternatives like "support" or "cheer on" can be considered depending on the desired nuance. Understanding its usage ensures clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pull for

Informal synonym, carrying the same meaning of "root for".

support

A general term for backing or advocating for someone or something.

be on someone's side

Highlights loyalty and alignment with a particular person or group.

cheer on

Emphasizes enthusiastic encouragement, often in a sporting context.

barrack for

Mainly British English, similar to cheering and showing support.

back

Suggests providing assistance or resources to help someone succeed.

be in favor of

Indicates approval and support for a proposal or idea.

encourage

Focuses on giving someone confidence and motivation.

favor

Implies preferential treatment or support.

wish someone well

Expresses positive thoughts and hopes for someone's success or happiness.

FAQs

How do you use "root for" in a sentence?

You can use "root for" to express your support for someone or something. For example, "I always "root for" the underdog in a competition" or "We're all "rooting for" you to succeed".

What does it mean to "root for" someone?

To "root for" someone means to support them and hope for their success. It implies a sense of encouragement and optimism about their chances.

What can I say instead of "root for"?

You can use alternatives like "support", "cheer on", or "be on someone's side" depending on the context.

Is it more common to "root for" a team or an individual?

You can "root for" both teams and individuals. It depends on the context and who you want to support. For example, "I root for the local soccer team" or "I root for my sister in her marathon".