推し

Fans cheering on their 推し with synchronized penlight wotagei in Akihabara. Photo: Ryo FUKAsawa, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

What is 推し?

推し (oshi) refers to your favorite member of an idol group, your favorite character in a series, or more broadly, anyone or anything you're a big fan of and actively support.

Etymology

The word comes from 推す (osu), meaning "to push" or "to recommend." Your 推し is the person you "push" - the one you support, promote, and cheer for.

Usage

• 推しメン (oshi-men) - Your favorite member (shortened form of 推しメンバー)
• 推し活 (oshi-katsu) - Activities related to supporting your oshi (buying merch, attending events, etc.)
• 推しが尊い (oshi ga toutoi) - "My oshi is precious" - common expression of love for your favorite

In Context

Originally used in idol fandom (AKB48, etc.), the term has expanded to include:

• Anime/manga characters
• VTubers
• K-pop idols
• Voice actors
• Athletes
• Fictional characters

Related Terms

• 担当 (tantou) - Similar to oshi, used especially in Johnny's fandom
• 最推し (saioshi) - Your absolute favorite
• 箱推し (hako-oshi) - Supporting the entire group, not just one member