go
go — verb
1. to move from where you are to a particular destination, especially a place that
to move from where you are to a particular destination, especially a place that is not on the same spot
Every morning, Quinn goes to school by bicycle.
go + to [place]
The bullet train goes from Taipei to Kaohsiung in about ninety minutes.
go + from [place] to [place]
Jiwoo went into the kitchen to get a glass of water.
go + into [place]
Tuan and his younger brother went to the park after lunch.
Christopher went up the stairs slowly because his leg hurt.
go + up/down [stairs]
- go to school
- go home
- go to work
- go into town
- go up the stairs
Grammar Patterns
go + adverb/preposition phrase (to/into/out of/up/down)
Usage Note
Often takes a preposition phrase that names the direction or destination: go to school, go into town, go up the hill.
Common Mistakes
2. used with an adverb or distance phrase to say how fast, how far, or in what mann
used with an adverb or distance phrase to say how fast, how far, or in what manner someone or something moves
The red car was going very fast down the highway.
go + fast/slow
We had gone only two miles when the engine began to make a strange noise.
go + distance (only two miles)
The old truck went slowly up the steep hill.
How far can this little boat go on a single tank of fuel?
how far can [sth] go?
Eitan went along the narrow path that led through the forest.
go + along [path]
- go fast
- go slowly
- go for miles
- go as far as
- stop
cease moving; go implies continuation
Grammar Patterns
go + adverb (fast/slow/carefully)
go + distance phrase
Usage Note
Frequently used with adverbs of speed (fast, slowly, quickly) or distance phrases (for miles, as far as).
3. to head somewhere because you have a specific goal, such as doing a sport, atten
to head somewhere because you have a specific goal, such as doing a sport, attending an event, or running an errand
On Sunday mornings, Yasmin's family goes swimming at the local pool.
go + -ing for sports and leisure activities
Bilal went to see a doctor about the pain in his shoulder.
go + to-infinitive
Élise and her classmates went camping in the mountains last summer.
Shall we go shopping this afternoon before the stores close?
go + -ing (shopping)
The children went to watch the football game with their uncle.
- go shopping
- go swimming
- go camping
- go fishing
- go to see
- go to visit
Grammar Patterns
go + -ing (go swimming/go shopping)
go + to-infinitive (go to see/go to buy)
Usage Note
Very common with -ing forms for leisure activities (go swimming, go fishing, go hiking). With to-infinitive, the purpose is explicit (go to buy, go to meet).
Common Mistakes
4. to travel to a place and spend some time there, with the intention of returning
to travel to a place and spend some time there, with the intention of returning afterwards
Quinn went to Japan for a month to study Japanese at a language school.
go + to [place] + for [time]
Sahil went to his grandmother's farm for the whole summer holiday.
Élise went to London for a week to attend her cousin's wedding.
go + to [place] + for [time] + to-infinitive
The team went to the training camp for three days before the match.
- go to [place] for [a period]
- go for a week
- go for the summer
- visit
implies staying with people or seeing a place; go is more general
Grammar Patterns
go + to [place] + for [time/period]
Usage Note
Distinguish from sense 1: here the emphasis is on staying at the destination for a period and then coming back, not just on reaching the place.
5. used especially in questions and negative statements to say that something canno
used especially in questions and negative statements to say that something cannot be found anymore, has been lost, or no longer exists
Where has my favourite blue sweater gone? I have looked everywhere for it.
where has [sth] gone?
When I looked for my keys on the table, they were gone.
be gone (missing)
All the biscuits from the tin have gone — someone must have eaten them.
Tuan realised his wallet was gone after he got off the bus.
- where has [sth] gone?
- be gone
- all gone
- appear
come into sight; go means to be no longer visible or present
Grammar Patterns
go (to indicate something is missing or has disappeared)
Usage Note
Typically in present perfect (has/have gone) or as the adjective gone. Cannot be used in progressive form for this meaning.
Common Mistakes
6. to depart from your current location, usually because you have another destinati
to depart from your current location, usually because you have another destination to reach or a new undertaking to begin
The train goes at seven, so please arrive at the station before six thirty.
go = depart (trains/buses)
It is getting late, so I think it is time for us to go.
time to go
Caio had to go early because he had a plane to catch in the morning.
The last bus goes at midnight, so do not miss it.
bus/train goes at [time]
Aunt Rosa told the children it was time to go home.
- time to go
- go at [time]
- must go
- go home
- let's go
Grammar Patterns
go (to depart)
go + adverb of time
Usage Note
Frequently used with a time phrase (go at six, go now). Also common in the imperative: Go! or Let's go!
Common Mistakes
7. When customers ask for a food or drink item to go, the staff wrap or box it so t
When customers ask for a food or drink item to go, the staff wrap or box it so the customer can carry it out and eat it somewhere other than the store.
Hao ordered two portions of noodles to go and ate them on the bench outside.
fixed phrase: 'to go' after food noun
Do you want your coffee to go, or will you drink it here in the café?
The chef said the fried rice could be packed to go in a few minutes.
Yael asked for a box to put her leftover cake in to take it to go.
- to go
- for here or to go
- packed to go
- food to go
- coffee to go
- take away
British English equivalent; same meaning but used in UK and Australia
- to take out
Used in some US regions as a near-synonym, though 'to go' is more common for drinks
Grammar Patterns
go — fixed as 'to go' after food/drink noun phrase
Usage Note
The phrase 'to go' always comes directly after the noun for the food or drink item. This sense is most common in American English; British English typically uses 'to take away' instead. The question 'For here or to go?' is a standard formula at fast-food counters.
Common Mistakes
8. to die — a gentle word used to avoid saying 'die' directly, especially when talk
to die — a gentle word used to avoid saying 'die' directly, especially when talking about someone you know or care about.
Layla's grandmother went peacefully in her sleep at the age of 92.
euphemistic register: used to avoid saying 'die'
Christopher said his uncle had gone the previous winter after a long illness.
The old man went surrounded by his children and grandchildren at home.
When the famous singer went, fans around the world shared their memories online.
- go peacefully
- go in one's sleep
- go before one's time
- has gone
- had gone
Grammar Patterns
go — always intransitive; no object
Usage Note
This is a euphemism — it replaces a harsh word with a softer one. Always used about people (or sometimes beloved pets), never about objects or abstract things. Most common in past tense ('went') or perfect ('has gone', 'had gone'). Frequently paired with adverbs like 'peacefully' or prepositional phrases like 'in her sleep' that soften the event further.
Common Mistakes
9. A road, track, cable, or similar object that leads or extends to a particular lo
A road, track, cable, or similar object that leads or extends to a particular location reaches in that direction, often linking two points.
A narrow path goes through the woods and ends at a small lake.
pattern: go + preposition phrase ('through')
The main road goes past the school and down to the harbour.
All the telephone cables from this building go under the street to the exchange.
A dirt track goes along the riverbank as far as the old mill.
Meera asked where the pipe went from the kitchen to the water tank.
- go to
- go through
- go past
- go along
- go under
- go up
- go down
- go from...to...
Grammar Patterns
go + adverb/preposition phrase (to, through, along, past, under)
Usage Note
This sense is always followed by a direction word or phrase — 'to', 'through', 'past', 'along', 'under', 'down', 'up'. It never stands alone (*'The road goes') without a direction. Subject is typically a physical route or linear object: road, path, trail, track, pipe, cable, wire, line, tunnel, corridor, river.
Common Mistakes
10. used of things that can be measured across space or time, such as a property rea
used of things that can be measured across space or time, such as a property reaching down to a river, or a relationship lasting for many years.
The garden goes all the way down to the river at the bottom of the hill.
pattern: go + distance phrase ('all the way down to')
Beatrix's career in publishing went back more than thirty years.
The tunnel under the mountain goes for nearly three kilometres.
Mei-Lin and Jiwoo's friendship went beyond their school days well into their adult years.
The old railway line went from the coast all the way to the capital.
- go from...to...
- go back (in time)
- go for (distance)
- go all the way
- go as far as
Grammar Patterns
go + adverb/preposition phrase (from...to, back, down to)
Usage Note
Distinguish from sense 9: sense 9 describes direction or destination ('the road goes to the station'), while sense 10 describes extent or span ('the beach goes for miles'). Sense 10 typically uses 'from...to...', 'for [distance]', 'back [time]', or 'all the way'. Subject can be anything that can be measured across space or time: a property, a period, a relationship, a view, a border.
11. used with a following verb to express a decision about a later action that a per
used with a following verb to express a decision about a later action that a person has already made — for instance, announcing a plan to start a course of study after finishing school.
Yael is going to start her new job at the hospital next Monday.
'be going to + infinitive' for planned future action
We are going to visit Auntie Rosa in Tokyo during the summer break.
Kemi is going to study environmental law after she graduates.
Joaquín and his sister are going to paint the bedroom this weekend.
Manuela is going to call the travel agent about the flight tickets.
- be going to
- going to + verb
- going to be
- not plan to
Explicit negative of intention
Grammar Patterns
be going to + infinitive — for planned future actions
Usage Note
This sense only works in the 'be going to' construction — never 'go to' alone. Use it when the speaker has a specific plan or intention, not a vague possibility. For spontaneous decisions made at the moment of speaking, use 'will' instead ('The phone is ringing — I will answer it'), not 'be going to'. Common with time phrases like 'next...', 'this...', 'tomorrow', or no time phrase when the plan is clear from context.
12. used with a following verb to indicate that an event is strongly expected based
used with a following verb to indicate that an event is strongly expected based on current conditions — for instance, predicting a shower when the sky turns dark overhead.
Look at those dark clouds — it is going to rain very soon.
'be going to' for prediction based on visible evidence
Careful with that glass or it is going to fall off the table.
The bus driver said the traffic is going to get worse before evening.
Élise thinks her little brother is going to cry when he sees the mess.
With these high winds, some trees are going to fall during the storm.
- be going to
- going to happen
- going to be
- going to get
- predictions with evidence
- will
Also used for predictions, but 'will' is more general/neutral; 'going to' emphasises the present evidence
- be about to
More immediate; suggests the event will happen within seconds or minutes
Grammar Patterns
be going to + infinitive — for predictions based on present evidence
Usage Note
Distinguish from sense 11: sense 11 expresses a person's intention or plan ('I am going to study'), while sense 12 expresses a prediction based on evidence ('It is going to rain'). For sense 12, the subject is often an event, weather phenomenon, or situation rather than a person with a plan. When used with a person as subject, sense 12 implies inevitability rather than intention ('She is going to be sorry' means I predict she will be sorry, not that she plans to be sorry).
13. to change to a new state or condition, often one that is worse or very different
to change to a new state or condition, often one that is worse or very different from before.
The milk went sour after being left out of the fridge all day.
go + adj describing spoilage/decay
Marta's grandfather's hair went grey when he was only forty.
The crowd went silent when the principal walked onto the stage.
go + adj describing a change in atmosphere
The little boy went red in the face from running so fast.
As the economy slowed, many small businesses went bankrupt.
go + adj: negative financial state change
- go bad
- go crazy
- go grey
- go silent
- go bankrupt
- go sour
- go blind
- stay
implies no change, remaining in the same state
Grammar Patterns
go + adjective
Usage Note
Always takes an adjective complement — unlike most other senses of go. The change described is often negative (go bad, go mad, go blind), but not always (go grey with age).
Common Mistakes
14. if a part of your body goes in a particular direction or way, it moves there, of
if a part of your body goes in a particular direction or way, it moves there, often while you are doing something else or showing someone something.
When the music started, Sirin's hands went up above her head.
body part + go + direction adverb
Yuna went like this with her shoulders to show how she dances.
The doctor asked me to lie down and go like that with my left leg.
go like that/this — demonstrating movement
Christopher's hand went slowly to his pocket to feel for his keys.
Without a word, her fingers went straight to the old scar on her chin.
body part + go + prepositional phrase (location)
- hand goes
- fingers go
- go like this
- go like that
- go up
- go to
Grammar Patterns
body part + go + adverb/preposition
Usage Note
The subject is always a body part (hand, finger, eyes, etc.), never the person. Typically followed by an adverb or preposition showing the direction, or by 'like this/that' when demonstrating a movement.
Common Mistakes
15. if a machine or device goes, it works correctly — or if it will not go, it is br
if a machine or device goes, it works correctly — or if it will not go, it is broken or unable to function.
The old clock on the wall still goes, though its face is cracked.
machine + go: functions correctly
Adina tried to start the lawnmower, but it would not go at all.
won't go / would not go: fails to function
The heating system goes by a timer that switches it on at six.
Selim checked that his camera was still going before the ceremony.
passive progressive: was going = was running
I pressed every button, but the computer simply would not go.
- clock goes
- engine goes
- won't go
- wouldn't go
- still goes
- break
implies the machine has stopped working due to damage
Usage Note
Most common in negative constructions with 'won't/wouldn't go' or with modals. The continuous form ('is going') is possible but less frequent than simple present or past.
Common Mistakes
16. used to describe the way that time moves forward — for instance, moving slowly,
used to describe the way that time moves forward — for instance, moving slowly, quickly, or in a particular manner.
The morning went very slowly while the children waited for news.
time + go + adverb (slowly/quickly)
As the years went by, the two cousins slowly lost touch with each other.
phrasal: go by = elapse
The last two weeks of the summer holiday went much too fast.
Time seems to go slowly when you are sitting in a hospital waiting room.
dummy subject 'time' + go + adverb
Before Nikos realised it, an hour had gone and he had missed the train.
- go by
- go quickly
- go slowly
- go fast
- time goes
Usage Note
Often paired with 'by' (go by = elapse) or with adverbs like quickly/slowly. Rarely used in the continuous form (*time is going sounds unnatural here).
Common Mistakes
17. used to say that someone or something stays in a difficult or unpleasant situati
used to say that someone or something stays in a difficult or unpleasant situation, without the situation changing.
In many countries, people still go hungry even though there is enough food.
go hungry — classic example of this sense
The thief went unpunished because the police could not find evidence.
go + un- adjective (unpunished, unnoticed)
During the drought, many families went without clean water for months.
Selim refused to apologise, and the argument went unresolved for weeks.
The stray dogs went uncared for after the shelter ran out of money.
go + negative past participle (uncared for, unpunished)
- go hungry
- go unpunished
- go without
- go unnoticed
- go uncared for
- go unresolved
Grammar Patterns
go + adjective (describing unpleasant condition)
Usage Note
Only used in linking-verb structures. The adjective almost always describes an unpleasant or deficient condition. Distinguish from sense 13 (BECOME), which describes a change into a state — this sense describes a continued state without change.
Common Mistakes
18. used when comparing a person or thing to the average of its type, often to say t
used when comparing a person or thing to the average of its type, often to say that it is not especially good but acceptable within that group.
As Chinese restaurants in this area go, this one is not bad for the price.
as [noun phrase] go: comparing within a category
For a six-year-old, Lara is quite tall, as young children go these days.
Leon's cooking is fine, as home meals among college students go.
Selim's essay was well written, as first drafts from beginners go.
as [category] go: setting expectations by type
The hotel was comfortable enough, as cheap hotels in that part of town go.
- as...go
- as far as...go
- as things go
- as these things go
- comparatively
adverb that works in similar comparison contexts (comparatively cheap)
- relatively
emphasises the relativity of the judgment (relatively good for its type)
Grammar Patterns
as + noun + go
Usage Note
Always appears in the pattern 'as [noun phrase] go/ɡoes' — it never stands alone. The noun phrase defines the category for comparison. The speaker typically implies the category is not highly regarded.
Common Mistakes
19. to serve as proof or evidence that a statement or claim is correct, shown throug
to serve as proof or evidence that a statement or claim is correct, shown through a particular fact or event
The experiment results go to show that plants grow faster under red light.
go to show + that-clause for proving
Niran's fast recovery goes to prove that the new treatment actually works.
All the evidence from the trial goes to confirm what the witness described.
go to confirm + noun clause
That the bridge survived the earthquake goes to show how well it was built.
Antonia's high test scores go to prove that studying in small groups can be effective.
- go to show
- go to prove
- go to confirm
- go to indicate
- prove
more direct and conclusive than 'go to prove'
- demonstrate
more formal; implies showing by evidence or reasoning
- confirm
focuses on verifying something already suspected
Grammar Patterns
go + to-infinitive (to show/prove/confirm)
Usage Note
Nearly always appears in the pattern 'go + to-infinitive' (show, prove, confirm, indicate) followed by a that-clause or a question word clause.
20. to begin an activity or process, or to start using something
to begin an activity or process, or to start using something
The children went to work on their science project right after lunch.
go to work = start working
If everyone is ready, I suggest we go ahead with the first experiment.
go ahead with + plan = proceed to start
Élise decided to go straight into studying medicine after she finished high school.
The choir went back to rehearsing after the conductor fixed the music sheets.
When the teacher gave the signal, everyone went to work on the exam paper.
- go to work
- go ahead with
- go back to
- go straight into
- go about
Grammar Patterns
go + to-infinitive
go + V-ing
go ahead with + noun
Common Mistakes
21. to take a turn or participate in a game, competition, or other turn-based activi
to take a turn or participate in a game, competition, or other turn-based activity
It is your turn to go — roll the dice and move your piece forward.
turn to go = take your turn in a game
In official chess tournaments, the player with the white pieces always goes first.
Zayd went next in the card game and laid down a winning hand of cards.
The young substitute goalkeeper went into the match during the second half of the final.
go into = enter a game as a player
When it was Sofia's turn to go, she placed her domino carefully on the table.
- go first
- go next
- go in
- go into
- turn to go
- play
broader; refers to the whole game, not just a turn
- take a turn
explicitly describes the action of playing one turn
Grammar Patterns
it is [someone's] turn to go
[player] goes first/next
Usage Note
Often used in the fixed phrases 'go first', 'go next', and 'it is [someone's] turn to go'. For team sports, 'go into' describes a player entering the game.
22. when a smaller number goes into a larger number, the larger can be evenly divide
when a smaller number goes into a larger number, the larger can be evenly divided by the smaller with no remainder left
Twelve divided by four is three because four goes into twelve exactly three times.
goes into = divides evenly into
The teacher asked if seven can go into thirty-two without leaving a remainder.
Padma checked whether nine goes into eighty-one by calculating in her notebook.
A whole number is even if two goes into it with nothing left over.
The math problem asked how many times three goes into one hundred and five.
- go into
- goes into
- go into evenly
- divide into
more formal mathematical term
- fit into
less precise but used in everyday speech
Grammar Patterns
[number] goes into [number] [number of times]
Usage Note
Never used in continuous form ('is going into'). The smaller number is the subject, and 'into' connects it to the larger number — e.g. 'Three goes into twelve.'
Common Mistakes
23. to utter words, especially when telling a story or joke, or used to report what
to utter words, especially when telling a story or joke, or used to report what someone said in a colourful way
Then the old fisherman goes, 'That was the biggest catch of my entire life.'
goes = says (informal narrative)
So the taxi driver goes to me, 'I have never seen traffic this bad before.'
The story goes that a famous singer once stayed in this very hotel room.
the story goes that + clause = it is said that
Then the little boy goes, 'I did not break the vase — the cat did it.'
As the local legend goes, the treasure was buried somewhere on the small island.
- story goes
- legend goes
- then [person] goes
- goes to me
Grammar Patterns
[person] goes, '[speech]'
the story goes that + clause
Usage Note
Informal register. When used to report speech in storytelling, the exact quoted words follow without 'that'. The phrase 'the story goes' or 'as the story goes' is used in both informal and neutral narrative contexts.
Common Mistakes
24. to become damaged, weaker, or stop working properly, especially through continuo
to become damaged, weaker, or stop working properly, especially through continuous use or age
After five years of heavy daily use, the battery in my phone finally went.
go = stop functioning (of a device or part)
William's voice went completely after he shouted at the football match for three hours.
The old refrigerator is starting to go — the motor makes a strange rattling noise now.
starting to go = beginning to break down
Tunde's eyesight has gone badly over the past few years from reading in dim light.
The brakes on the bicycle went suddenly while Xiu was riding down the steep hill.
- go bad
- go wrong
- go blind
- go deaf
- voice goes
- battery goes
- brakes go
- fail
more formal; often used for mechanical or bodily functions
- break down
specifically for machines and vehicles
- deteriorate
more formal; describes a gradual worsening
- give out
informal; for energy, strength, or patience
Grammar Patterns
[thing] goes (suddenly/gradually)
Usage Note
Commonly describes body parts losing function (eyesight, hearing, voice), machines breaking down, or food going bad. Often uses 'has gone' for completed deterioration or 'is going' for gradual decline.
Common Mistakes
25. to make a sound of a certain kind — used especially when talking about the noise
to make a sound of a certain kind — used especially when talking about the noise a machine, device, animal, or object produces.
The old grandfather clock went 'tick tock' all through the night.
go + onomatopoeic word for machine sounds
Eri's phone went 'ding' when the new message arrived.
If the smoke alarm goes, leave the building immediately.
go for alarm or warning sounds
The starter's pistol went 'bang' and the runners were off.
Mauricio's car engine went 'putt putt' before it finally stopped.
- go bang
- go ding
- go tick tock
- alarm goes
- bell goes
- make (a sound)
less idiomatic but more formal
- ring
only for bells or telephones; narrower scope
- sound
more technical; used for alarms and signals
Grammar Patterns
go + onomatopoeic word
go + sound description
Usage Note
Frequently followed by an onomatopoeic word that represents the sound being described. Both transitive (to utter a specific sound) and intransitive (to make any sound) uses are possible.
Common Mistakes
26. to have particular words or a particular tune — used when describing the content
to have particular words or a particular tune — used when describing the content of a song, poem, story, or well-known saying.
As the old saying goes, you should not judge a book by its cover.
as the saying goes — fixed expression
The story goes that the castle was built by a giant in one night.
the story goes that… — narrative pattern
Gita hummed along as the tune went from verse to chorus.
'As the song goes,' said Benjamin, 'love is all you need.'
- as the saying goes
- the story goes
- the song goes
- the tune goes
Grammar Patterns
as the saying/song/story goes
the story goes that…
the tune/words go…
Usage Note
This sense never appears in continuous form (not 'is going'). Often introduces quoted material using a that-clause or a colon. The subject is the content itself (song, story, saying), not the person performing it.
Common Mistakes
27. to appear together or belong together in a natural way — for example, two colors
to appear together or belong together in a natural way — for example, two colors that look good side by side, or a food that is often paired with another.
Red wine and sharp cheese usually go well together at parties.
go well together — collocation for natural pairing
These two colors do not go together at all.
Pepperoni and mushrooms go perfectly on a homemade pizza.
go + adverb + on [food] — describing ingredient pairings
Short dresses and high heels usually go together in fashion.
- go together
- go well
- go perfectly
- go with
- match
more common and neutral; can be used transitively ('match the shoes')
- complement
more formal; implies each item improves the other
- harmonize
formal; mainly used for colors, sounds, or design elements
- clash
implies a strong visual or stylistic conflict
Grammar Patterns
go + adverb + together
go with + noun
Usage Note
Subject is typically two or more items being considered together. Frequently used with adverbs like 'well', 'perfectly', 'naturally', or the phrase 'together'. Negation requires auxiliary 'do/does not' before 'go together'.
Common Mistakes
28. to have a specific place where something normally belongs or is stored.
to have a specific place where something normally belongs or is stored.
The clean towels go in the bathroom cupboard.
go in [location] — stating usual position
Noor asked her mother where the spare keys go.
The wine glasses go on the top shelf above the counter.
go on [surface/position] — where something belongs
This folder goes in the drawer marked 'bills'.
The cat's bed goes in the corner of the living room.
- go in
- go on
- go under
- go inside
Grammar Patterns
go in [location]
go on [surface/shelf]
go [preposition phrase]
Usage Note
Subject is usually an object that has a designated storage, display, or placement spot. Always followed by a prepositional phrase indicating location. Does not appear in continuous form.
Common Mistakes
29. to be bought by someone, or to be obtainable for a certain amount of money.
to be bought by someone, or to be obtainable for a certain amount of money.
The painting went for over ten thousand dollars at auction.
go for [price] — sold at a specific price
Tickets for the concert are going fast, so buy yours now.
going fast — describing rapid sales
The old vase went cheap at the market.
How much did the car go for in the end?
go for — asking about sale price
Élise's handmade bracelets went for twenty dollars each.
- go for
- go at
- going fast
- go cheap
- sell (for)
more direct and common; used for both the seller's action and the price
- fetch
more formal; implies a notable price ('fetch a high price')
Grammar Patterns
go for [price]
go at [price]
Usage Note
Commonly used with 'for' to introduce the price. Can also be used with adjectives of speed ('go fast', 'go quickly') to describe how rapidly items sell. The subject is the item being sold, not the seller.
Common Mistakes
30. to fit well with something in terms of appearance, style, or general acceptabili
to fit well with something in terms of appearance, style, or general acceptability — for example, a piece of clothing that matches another, or a behaviour that is allowed in a particular situation.
Does this blue tie go with my grey suit?
go with [clothing] — matching in style
That bright shirt does not go with those formal trousers.
In her house, anything goes as long as the guests are happy.
anything goes — fixed expression for total acceptance
Ife asked whether casual shoes go with the dress code.
Maeve thought the new curtains went well with the wall color.
go well with — collocation for visual harmony
- go with
- go well with
- go together
- anything goes
- match
more direct; can be used transitively ('match your shoes')
- suit
implies the combination is flattering or appropriate
- be allowed
closer in meaning when referring to acceptability of behaviour
- clash
strong visual or stylistic conflict
- be forbidden
when talking about rules or acceptability
Grammar Patterns
go with [item]
anything goes
go [adverb] with
Usage Note
Subject is typically an item of clothing, accessory, colour, or decorative element. Takes 'with' to introduce the thing it matches. The fixed expression 'anything goes' uses this sense to mean that all behaviour is tolerated.
Common Mistakes
31. To be called or referred to using a certain name, especially one that differs fr
To be called or referred to using a certain name, especially one that differs from an official or full name.
In the village, the old woman went by the name 'Auntie Mei' to everyone.
go by + name for being known as
The new software update goes under the code name 'Project Horizon.'
go under + code name
Théo asked if the restaurant still went by its old name from ten years ago.
That type of plant goes by several different names in different parts of Asia.
Felix learned that his teacher went by a different name at university.
- go by the name of
- go under the name of
- go under the code name
- go by a different name
- be called
neutral and the most direct equivalent
- be known as
suggests wider recognition than just having a name
- be referred to as
more formal, used in writing or official contexts
Grammar Patterns
go + by/under + name
Usage Note
Frequently followed by 'by' or 'under' to introduce the name or title. This sense does not appear in the passive form.
Common Mistakes
32. To progress, develop, or unfold in some manner, especially when describing the o
To progress, develop, or unfold in some manner, especially when describing the outcome or quality of an event, situation, or activity.
The job interview went better than Christopher had expected.
go + adverb (better/worse/well/badly)
Kenji was nervous about how the meeting would go with the new investors.
how + go for asking about progress
If everything goes according to plan, the festival will open in June.
go according to plan
The conversation was going badly, so Anjali changed the subject.
Andrés asked his manager how the project was going before the deadline.
how + going in indirect question
- go well
- go badly
- go smoothly
- go according to plan
- how did it go
- how is it going
Grammar Patterns
go + adverb (well/badly/smoothly)
how + go
go + according to + noun
Usage Note
Commonly followed by adverbs of quality (well, badly, smoothly) or set phrases like 'according to plan'. Frequently appears in direct and indirect questions about outcomes or progress.
Common Mistakes
go about
phrasal verbTo start or continue doing something in a particular way.
How should I go about fixing this broken chair?
She went about her daily routine without any changes.
go after
phrasal verbTo try to get or catch something or someone.
The police went after the thief who stole the car.
He decided to go after the job he really wanted.
go against
phrasal verbTo oppose or not follow something such as a rule or advice.
His actions went against the company's policy.
It goes against my principles to lie.
go ahead
phrasal verbTo start or continue doing something, often after getting permission.
You can go ahead and start the meeting without me.
The project will go ahead as planned next week.
go along
phrasal verbTo agree with or support an idea or plan.
I'll go along with your suggestion for the party.
She decided to go along with the group's decision.
go along with
phrasal verbTo agree to or accept someone's idea or plan.
I'll go along with whatever you decide for dinner.
He went along with the plan even though he had doubts.
go around
phrasal verbTo move from place to place or to be enough for everyone.
There aren't enough chairs to go around for all guests.
A rumor is going around that the school will close.
go around with
phrasal verbTo spend time with someone as a friend or partner.
She goes around with a group of artists from college.
He has been going around with Maria for six months.
go at
phrasal verbTo attack or start doing something with energy.
The two dogs went at each other in the park.
He went at the homework with great determination.
go away
phrasal verbTo leave a place or disappear.
Please go away and leave me alone for a while.
The pain in my leg finally went away after resting.
go back
phrasal verbTo return to a place or previous state.
We need to go back home because I forgot my keys.
After the break, let's go back to work.
go back on
phrasal verbTo break a promise or agreement.
He went back on his word and didn't help us.
The company went back on the contract, causing problems.
go back to
phrasal verbTo return to an activity, place, or topic.
Let's go back to the main topic of our discussion.
She went back to school after working for two years.
go before
phrasal verbTo exist or happen earlier in time.
The events that went before led to the current crisis.
This case will go before the judge next Monday.
go beyond
phrasal verbTo exceed or be more than something.
Her kindness goes beyond what is expected of a friend.
The cost may go beyond our budget if we are not careful.
go by
phrasal verbTo pass (time) or to be guided by something.
Time goes by quickly when you are having fun.
We should go by the rules set by the committee.
go down
phrasal verbTo move to a lower level, decrease, or be remembered.
The temperature went down to freezing last night.
This event will go down in history as a great success.
go down with
phrasal verbTo become ill with a particular disease.
Half the class went down with the flu last week.
She went down with a cold after the camping trip.
go for
phrasal verbTo choose, attack, or be attracted to something.
I think I'll go for the chicken salad for lunch.
The dog went for the mailman when he approached.
go forward
phrasal verbTo move ahead or continue with a plan.
The project will go forward despite the difficulties.
We need to go forward with the new marketing strategy.
go in
phrasal verbTo enter a place or be understood.
Please go in and take a seat while you wait.
I explained it twice, but it didn't go in.
go in for
phrasal verbTo take part in or enjoy a particular activity.
She goes in for marathon running every year.
He doesn't go in for sports; he prefers reading.
go into
phrasal verbTo enter a place, career, or discuss in detail.
She decided to go into medicine after college.
Let's not go into the details right now.
go in with
phrasal verbTo join someone in a business or activity.
He went in with his brother to open a restaurant.
Would you like to go in with us on buying a gift?
go off
phrasal verbTo explode, make a sudden noise, or leave.
The alarm clock went off at six in the morning.
She went off to Paris without telling anyone.
go off with
phrasal verbTo leave with someone or something, often secretly.
He went off with all the money from the safe.
She went off with her best friend's boyfriend.
go on
phrasal verbTo continue happening or doing something.
The show must go on despite the rain.
Please go on with your story; I'm listening.
go on doing
phrasal verbTo continue doing the same thing without stopping.
He went on talking for hours without a break.
She went on working even after everyone left.
go on to
phrasal verbTo move to the next thing after finishing something.
After college, she went on to a successful career.
Let's go on to the next item on the agenda.
go on to do
phrasal verbTo later do something else, often more important.
He started as a clerk and went on to become manager.
She went on to win several awards for her research.
go out
phrasal verbTo leave home for social activities or to stop burning.
We usually go out for dinner on Fridays.
The fire went out because we ran out of wood.
go out of
phrasal verbTo leave a place or state.
She went out of the room without saying a word.
The company went out of business last year.
go out to
phrasal verbTo be sent or directed to someone or something.
Our thoughts go out to the victims of the disaster.
The invitation went out to all members of the club.
go out with
phrasal verbTo have a romantic relationship with someone.
She is going out with a guy from her math class.
They have been going out with each other for two years.
go over
phrasal verbTo review, examine, or be accepted.
Let's go over the plan one more time before the meeting.
His speech went over well with the audience.
go over to
phrasal verbTo move from one place or side to another.
She went over to the window to see the view.
He went over to the other political party last year.
go round
phrasal verbTo be enough for everyone or to visit someone.
There are enough sandwiches to go round for everyone.
I'll go round to her house after work.
go round with
phrasal verbTo spend time with someone regularly.
He goes round with a group of musicians.
She goes round with her cousins every weekend.
go through
phrasal verbTo experience, examine, or be approved.
She went through a difficult time after the accident.
We need to go through the documents carefully.
go through with
phrasal verbTo complete something you have planned or agreed to, even if it is difficult.
He decided to go through with the surgery despite the risks.
She went through with the wedding even though she had doubts.
go to
phrasal verbTo attend or be given to someone.
The prize went to the youngest competitor.
I go to the gym every morning before work.
go together
phrasal verbTo match or be suitable with each other.
These colors go together very well.
Do you think this shirt and tie go together?
go towards
phrasal verbTo be used to help pay for something.
The money will go towards buying new equipment.
All profits go towards charity this year.
go under
phrasal verbTo sink below the surface or fail financially.
The boat went under after hitting a rock.
Many small businesses went under during the recession.
go up
phrasal verbTo rise, increase, or be built.
The price of gas went up by ten cents.
New buildings are going up all over the city.
go with
phrasal verbTo match or choose something.
This tie goes well with your blue shirt.
I think I'll go with the red car instead of the blue one.
go without
phrasal verbTo not have something that you usually need or want.
We had to go without electricity for three days.
She went without lunch to save money.
anything goes
idiomThere are no rules or limits on what people can do or say.
At that party, anything goes—people wore crazy costumes.
In this art class, anything goes, so be creative.
Compared to the typical person or thing of that type.
As restaurants go, this one is quite affordable.
As teachers go, Ms. Lee is very patient with students.
To be almost a particular age, time, or number.
It was going on for midnight when we finally left.
My grandfather is going on eighty, but he still walks daily.
Used to express an intention or plan to do something in the future.
Maya is going to start her new job next Monday.
Are you going to join us for dinner tonight?
Used to warn or tell someone not to do something.
Don't go telling everyone about the surprise party.
Please don't go spending all your money on candy.
An amount that is sufficient for a short period of time.
Here is some cash to be going on with until payday.
We have enough food to be going on with for a few days.
To make a very strong effort to achieve something.
The team went all out to win the championship game.
She went all out for the party with decorations and food.
go and do something
idiomUsed to express anger or annoyance that someone has done something foolish.
Why did you go and break the window with your ball?
He had to go and lose the keys right before the trip.
go off on one
idiomTo suddenly become very angry.
My dad went off on one when he saw the broken vase.
Sara went off on one after hearing the unfair news.
To have many or few advantages or good qualities.
She has a lot going for her: intelligence and charm.
Without experience, he has nothing going for him in this job.
no go
idiomNot possible or not allowed.
Trying to get tickets now is no go; they are sold out.
The plan to camp in the rain was no go.
not (even) go there
idiomUsed to say you do not want to discuss a topic because it is unpleasant.
Let's not go there—that argument was painful enough.
Don't even go there; I don't want to hear about it.
ready, steady, go!
idiomSaid to start a race or competition.
The coach shouted, 'Ready, steady, go!' and the runners started.
Ready, steady, go! The race has begun.
to be going on with
idiomFor now, as a start or temporary measure.
Just take this book to be going on with; I'll bring more later.
Here is some money to be going on with until you get paid.
to go
idiomRemaining or still left to be done or used.
I have three more exams to go before the holiday.
There are only five minutes to go until the movie starts.
The way you treat others will eventually be returned to you.
He was mean to everyone, but what goes around comes around.
Remember, what goes around comes around, so be kind.
Used to ask what action someone should take next in a difficult situation.
After losing the job, where does he go from here?
The project failed—where do we go from here?
who goes there?
idiomA challenge from a guard asking someone to identify themselves.
The soldier shouted, 'Halt! Who goes there?'
In the dark, the guard asked, 'Who goes there?'
go on (with you)
idiomYou say this when you think someone is not telling the truth or when you disagree with them in a friendly way.
Go on with you, Sara didn't eat the whole cake by herself.
You think you can run faster than me? Go on with you!
go — noun
1. an occasion when you try to do something, especially something difficult or unfa
an occasion when you try to do something, especially something difficult or unfamiliar, to see if you can succeed at it
Vinícius decided to have a go at fixing the old bicycle himself.
have a go at [something] — attempt to do
After three failed attempts, Nala's fourth go at the puzzle finally worked.
The children each had a go on the swing during lunch break.
have a go on [something] — try using
I promised Lakshmi I would give the new recipe a go this weekend.
give [something] a go — try something new
Eitan took one more go at climbing the steep wall before giving up.
- have a go
- give something a go
- take a go
- first go
- another go
Grammar Patterns
have a go (at [something])
give [something] a go
Usage Note
Commonly appears in the informal phrases 'have a go' and 'give something a go.' The object follows 'at' when specifying what is being attempted.
Common Mistakes
2. the sustained effort and hard work needed to make a business, relationship, or p
the sustained effort and hard work needed to make a business, relationship, or project successful, especially when conditions are difficult
The couple worked hard to make a go of their small bakery in the village.
make a go of [business] — try to make succeed
Christopher and Alessia decided to make a go of their long-distance relationship.
Despite the tough market, Dahlia managed to make a go of her online shop.
make a go of [venture] — succeed through effort
Tamás knew that to make a go of the farm, he needed new equipment.
- make a go of
- make a go of it
- make a go of things
- succeed at
more general and direct; 'make a go of' implies overcoming difficulty
- make work
informal; similar meaning of achieving viability
- fail at
opposite outcome
- give up on
opposite action — stopping the effort
Grammar Patterns
make a go of [something]
Usage Note
Used almost exclusively in the fixed phrase 'make a go of (something).' The object is typically a business, relationship, or project that requires sustained effort over time — not a single task.
Common Mistakes
3. the right to take a turn at a sport, game, or other activity, or the chance to u
the right to take a turn at a sport, game, or other activity, or the chance to use something for a short while
It is Yara's turn now — Naoko had her go a few minutes ago.
one's go — one's turn
The teacher said everyone in the class would get a go at using the microscope.
Megan waited patiently for her go on the computer during lab time.
wait for one's go — wait for one's chance
Whose go is it to wash the dishes after dinner tonight?
whose go — whose turn
Indra let his younger brother have a go on the gaming console first.
- my go
- your go
- whose go
- have a go
- get a go
- wait for one's go
Grammar Patterns
possessive + go (my go, your go, whose go)
have a go (at [game/activity])
Usage Note
Often used with possessive determiners (my go, your go, his go) or in question form ('Whose go is it?'). Distinguish from sense 1 (ATTEMPT): here the focus is on whose turn it is, not on trying something difficult.
Common Mistakes
4. an act of strongly criticizing or complaining to someone about something they ha
an act of strongly criticizing or complaining to someone about something they have done wrong
The manager had a go at Vinícius for being late three times that week.
have a go at [person] — criticize or scold
Nala's mum had a go at her for leaving her schoolbag on the floor again.
The coach had a go at the whole team after they lost the match badly.
I wish you would stop having a go at me about every little thing.
have a go at [person] — complain repeatedly
- have a go at
- had a go at me
- stop having a go
- praise
opposite action
Grammar Patterns
have a go at [someone]
Usage Note
Primarily British English, informal. The object of criticism follows 'at' — 'have a go at someone.' Not to be confused with sense 1 (ATTEMPT), where 'have a go at something' means to try doing something.
Common Mistakes
5. a lively and energetic state, especially the physical or mental energy to keep d
a lively and energetic state, especially the physical or mental energy to keep doing things
After a good night's sleep, the children were full of go and ready to play.
full of go — full of energy
Lakshmi's grandmother still has plenty of go in her despite being over eighty.
The puppy was so full of go that Christopher could barely keep up with it.
full of go — lively and energetic
After a long hike, Yara was still full of go and wanted to explore more.
- full of go
- plenty of go
- have go in one
Grammar Patterns
full of go
Usage Note
Almost always used in the fixed informal phrase 'full of go.' This sense is uncommon in modern everyday speech and may sound dated to younger speakers.
6. a strategy board game that originated in ancient China, in which two people comp
a strategy board game that originated in ancient China, in which two people compete by placing stones of opposite colours one at a time on a grid to surround territory
Eitan spent every afternoon at the community centre playing Go with older players.
play Go — the board game
Naoko's grandfather taught her how to play Go when she was just seven years old.
The game of Go requires deep strategic thinking and a great deal of patience.
Professional Go players can spend hours studying the positions of stones on the board.
Go — strategic board game
- play Go
- Go player
- Go board
- Go stone
Grammar Patterns
play Go
Usage Note
Written with a capital 'G' to distinguish it from the verb 'go.' Not to be confused with the common English word — this is the proper name of a specific game (Japanese: igo; Chinese: weiqi).
Common Mistakes
Word family
Synonym discussion
Sense: verb/1
Go is the most common everyday word for moving from one place to another and is neutral in register. Travel suggests longer journeys, often for pleasure or business, and carries a broader scope (you can travel across Europe but also travel to the shops — though go would sound more natural). Move emphasises the physical act of changing position rather than the destination (the car barely moved after the crash; she moved closer to see the painting). Head is informal and directional, focusing on where you are going rather than the process itself (let us head to the beach before it gets dark). Proceed is formal and suggests orderly forward movement, common in official instructions (passengers should proceed to Gate 12 for boarding). For everyday conversation, go is the safest choice; head sounds natural in casual chat; travel works for longer trips; proceed belongs in written instructions or formal announcements.
Common collocations
Phrases
- on the go
- go for it
- go without
- go about
- go ahead
- go-to
- go too far
- go all out
- go the extra mile
- go in one ear and out the other
Etymology
Go comes from Old English gān, which belongs to a family of Germanic verbs (like German gehen and Dutch gaan). The past tense went was borrowed from the Old English verb wendan (meaning "to turn" or "to go in a different direction"). The root traces back to Proto-Indo-European *ǵʰeh₁-, meaning "to go, leave, or set out."