attaboy
word
/ˈætəˌbɔɪ/
A-duh-boy
/ɐtˈæbɔɪ/
a-TA-boy
Definition
An informal expression used to praise someone, especially a boy or man, for doing something well or correctly.
Usage & Nuances
'Attaboy' is very informal and often used between friends or when encouraging children. It usually expresses immediate praise after an achievement. More common in American English; rarely used for girls (use 'attagirl'). Not used in formal writing.
Spanish: ¡Eso es! - ¡Bien hecho!Portuguese (BR): Muito bem! - Isso aí!Portuguese (PT): Muito bem! - Força aí!Chinese (Simplified): 干得好! - 好样的!Chinese (Traditional): 幹得好! - 好樣的!Hindi: शाबाश! - बहुत बढ़िया!Arabic: أحسنت! - برافو!Bengali: বাহ! - বাহরে!Russian: молодец - вот это даJapanese: よくやった - いいぞVietnamese: giỏi lắm - hay lắmKorean: 잘했어 - 멋져Turkish: aferin - helal olsunUrdu: شاباش - بہت خوبIndonesian: keren - mantap - hebat
Example Sentences
Keep going—attaboy, that's how you do it!
natural
Attaboy, you did a great job on your test!
basic
Dad smiled and said, 'Attaboy,' when I finished mowing the lawn.
basic
When his little brother scored a goal, he yelled, 'Attaboy!'
basic
You fixed the bike all by yourself? Attaboy!
natural
Wow, you finally made it to the top—attaboy!
natural