root for

Meaning

To show support for a person, team, or group, especially in a competition, game, or difficult situation. It is widely used in sports, reality TV shows, and movies when you want a specific side to win.

Examples

• I'm rooting for the underdog in tonight's game.

  I'm rooting for the underdog in tonight's game.

• Who are you rooting for in the final episode of the show?

  Who are you rooting for in the final episode of the show?

• We were all rooting for her to win the singing competition.

  We were all rooting for her to win the singing competition.

• I know they are playing against my favorite team, but I'm still rooting for their star player.

  I know they are playing against my favorite team, but I'm still rooting for their star player.

• Even though the movie is a bit dark, you can't help but root for the main character.

  Even though the movie is a bit dark, you can't help but root for the main character.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ I am rooting to the local team.

  ✓ I am rooting for the local team.

  Always use the preposition 'for' after 'root' when expressing support.

• ✗ I root for that they win.

  ✓ I am rooting for them to win.

  'Root for' is followed by a noun or pronoun, often with an infinitive (e.g., 'root for someone to do something'), not a 'that' clause.

Related Expressions

Practice

• I always ___ the main character, even when they make bad decisions.

  💡 Support or cheer for someone.

  Show answer

  root for

• Who are you going to ___ in the World Cup final?

  💡 Want to win.

  Show answer

  root for