rohkaisu

Rohkaisu is a Finnish noun meaning encouragement or exhortation; it denotes words or actions that give someone courage, confidence, or motivation. It is formed from the verb rohkaista (to encourage or embolden) and is related to rohkea (brave) and rohkeus (courage).

Rohkaisu is used in everyday language as well as in education, sports, work, and public discourse. A rohkaisu can be verbal, such as a reassuring sentence or a pep talk, or nonverbal, such as a supportive gesture or helping hand. The nuance of rohkaisu emphasizes emotional uplift and inner resolve, distinguishing it from kannustus, which is closer to cheering or backing and may carry a broader or more practical sense of support.

In practical use, rohkaisu can accompany both individual and group contexts, including coaching, mentoring, or crisis moments where encouraging words are meant to sustain effort and resilience. It is a common everyday mechanism for sustaining motivation and confidence.

Examples: "Hänen rohkaisunsa auttoi minua uskomaan itseeni." "Lukion opettaja antoi rohkaisua kaverilleni kilpailussa." The term often appears in discussions of positive communication, motivation, and social support.