# root for

CEFR B1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/root-for
Updated: 2026-10-22

## Definition

to show support for a person or a team because you want them to win or succeed. You use this when you are a fan of someone in a competition or a difficult situation.

For teachers: to express strong support or hope for the success of a person, team, or organization. This is an inseparable phrasal verb that requires the preposition 'for' to introduce the object of support.

## Examples

- I always root for the home team during the playoffs.
- Even though she moved to London, she still roots for her favorite baseball team back in New York.
- The entire nation seemed to root for the underdog candidate, whose unexpected rise challenged the long-standing political establishment.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I am rooting the blue team." but "I am rooting for the blue team." — the verb 'root' must be followed by the preposition 'for' to link to the object.

## Usage notes

- This phrase is mostly used in sports but can apply to any personal struggle or competition.
- Teaching tip: Explain that while 'cheer' describes the physical act of shouting, 'root for' describes the emotional state of wanting someone to win.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.