Encouraging someone

Everyone likes to be encouraged. Here are some phrases you can use when trying to encourage someone.

You're coming along well.
Keep up the good work.
That's a good effort.
That's a real improvement.
You're on the right lines.
Keep going.
Come on, you can do.
Give it your best shot.
What have you got to lose?
If at first you don't succeed...

Explanations

• Phrases 1 to 4 are often used to encourage someone who is working and doing well.
• Phrase 5 is used to say someone is not exactly right but could get it right if they tried again.
• Phrases 6 and 7 are general ways of encouraging and can suggest that the person should not stop.
• Phrases 8 and 9 can be used to encourage someone to try something new.
• ...try and try again. The first half of this phrase can be used to encourage someone to try again, even if the first attempt was unsuccessful.