German Phrase
Geh selbstbewusst weiter.
Meaning
‘Geh selbstbewusst weiter.’ is a short, encouraging statement that tells someone to continue moving forward with confidence. It combines a direct command with a positive attitude, urging the listener to trust their own abilities.
When to use
Use this phrase when you want to motivate a friend, colleague, or yourself after a setback, a presentation, or any situation where confidence might be wavering. It works well in informal, supportive conversations or in a coaching setting.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Gehselbstbewusstweiter.
Imperative (2nd person singular)
‘Geh’ is the informal command form of the verb ‘gehen’ used when speaking to one person you know well.
Adverbial use of adjectives
‘selbstbewusst’ is an adjective that can be used adverbially to describe the manner of the action, similar to ‘confidently’.
Adverb ‘weiter’
‘weiter’ means ‘onward, further’ and follows the verb/adverbial phrase in German word order.
Separable verb note
‘weitergehen’ is a separable verb, but in the imperative the prefix stays at the end: ‘Geh … weiter.’
🗨In Conversation
Ich fühle mich nach dem Vorstellungsgespräch unsicher.
I feel insecure after the interview.
Geh selbstbewusst weiter.
Go on confidently.
✕Common Mistakes
Geh selbstbewusste weiter.
‘Selbstbewusste’ is the adjective form for a noun (e.g., ‘eine selbstbewusste Person’). Here you need the adverbial form ‘selbstbewusst’.
Gehen selbstbewusst weiter.
In the imperative you drop the infinitive ending – use ‘Geh’, not ‘gehen’.
Weitergehen selbstbewusst.
When using the imperative, the separable prefix moves to the end; ‘weitergehen’ stays together only in infinitive or past forms.
↔Alternatives
Mach weiter mit Zuversicht.
Keep going with confidence.
Setz deinen Weg selbstsicher fort.
Continue your path in a self‑assured way.
Gehe mit Selbstvertrauen weiter.
Walk forward with self‑trust.
Cultural Tip
German speakers value directness, so an imperative like ‘Geh … weiter’ can sound strong. It’s perfectly natural in a friendly or coaching context, but avoid using it with strangers or in formal business settings unless you have an established rapport. Adding a smile or a supportive tone softens the command.