How Do You Spell GUNG HO?

Pronunciation: [ɡˈʌŋ hˈə͡ʊ] (IPA)

The expression "gung ho" is commonly spelled as two separate words, but it actually originated from the Chinese word "gōng hé" (工合) which means "working together". When it was adopted by the U.S. Marines during World War II, they spelled it phonetically as "gung ho" (/ˈɡʌŋ ˈhoʊ/). The first syllable is pronounced with a short u sound, while the second syllable is pronounced with a long o sound. So, despite its unusual spelling, "gung ho" is a phonetic representation of a Chinese phrase.

GUNG HO Meaning and Definition

1. Gung ho is an English phrase commonly used to describe an individual or group's enthusiastic and highly motivated approach towards a particular task, goal, or endeavor. The term originates from the Chinese word "gōng hé," which translates to "work together" and was used as a slogan for industrial cooperatives during World War II.

   Gung ho signifies a strong sense of dedication, passion, and commitment to achieving success. It implies a willingness to put forth maximum effort, often going above and beyond what is expected. When someone is described as gung ho, it suggests that they are proactive, self-motivated, and possess a can-do attitude. They exhibit a high level of energy and determination, inspiring others to rally around their cause and work together as a team.

   However, the term does not only denote enthusiasm; it also emphasizes the need for cooperation and unity. Being gung ho implies a cooperative mindset, where individuals are willing to set aside personal differences and work harmoniously towards a common objective. It highlights the importance of teamwork, collaboration, and shared responsibilities.

   Overall, gung ho represents an attitude of immense enthusiasm, dedication, and teamwork. It conveys a commitment to delivering exceptional results while fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie among those involved.

Common Misspellings for GUNG HO

• fung ho
• vung ho
• bung ho
• hung ho
• yung ho
• gyng ho
• ghng ho
• gjng ho
• ging ho
• g8ng ho
• g7ng ho
• gubg ho
• gumg ho
• gujg ho
• guhg ho
• gunf ho
• gunv ho
• gunb ho

Etymology of GUNG HO

The word "gung ho" can be traced back to the Chinese term "gōng hé" (工合), which means "work together" or "cooperate". This term was used by General Evans Carlson, an American Marine officer, during World War II. Carlson was inspired by the cooperative and enthusiastic attitude of the Chinese Industrial Cooperatives (known as Gōngyè Hézuòshè, 工业合作社) and incorporated the term into the English language as "gung ho". He popularized the term in his 1943 war film "Gung Ho"!, which depicted the collaborative efforts of American and Chinese soldiers against the Japanese. As a result, "gung ho" entered the English lexicon, symbolizing enthusiasm, teamwork, and an eager willingness to work together towards a common goal.

Idioms with the word GUNG HO

• gung ho The idiom "gung ho" means extremely enthusiastic or eager, often to the point of being overly zealous or eager to please.

Similar spelling words for GUNG HO

• gang,
• gumshoe,
• congo,
• guanaco,
• guangzhou,
• gong.