Ánimo

Ánimo is a Spanish noun that denotes spirit, morale, or energy, and it also functions as an interjection meaning “cheer up” or “come on.” When used as a noun, it can refer to a person’s mental or emotional state, or to one’s resolve and courage. As an interjection, it is commonly spoken to encourage someone to persevere or start a task, for example: ¡Ánimo! or ¡Ánimo, que puedes hacerlo!

Etymology and scope: The word derives from Latin anima, meaning soul, life, or breath, through Old Spanish. It has cognates in other Romance languages, such as Portuguese ânimo and Italian animo. In everyday speech, ánimo covers mood, motivation, and willingness, and it can appear in various expressions that describe morale in individuals or groups.

Usage and phrases: Tener ánimo describes being in good spirits or having motivation: “Tengo ánimo para seguir.” Related expressions include mantener el ánimo, perder el ánimo, and animar (to encourage). In broader contexts, with phrases like con ánimo de lucro or sin ánimo de lucro, ánimo denotes intention or purpose rather than mood, indicating profit orientation or nonprofit status. The plural los ánimos can refer to the morale of a group, as in “los ánimos están altos,” though singular usage is more common when speaking of an individual's state.

See also: Related terms include ánimo, ánimo, espíritu, morale, valor, and la motivación. The word is widely used in informal conversation as well as formal writing.