Quick Definition
Go Ahead — To proceed with a plan; used to give permission.
Meanings of Go Ahead
| Meaning | Example Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Proceed | The construction will go ahead despite protests. | It will proceed as planned. |
| Give permission | 'Can I borrow your pen?' 'Go ahead!' | Yes, please do. |
Example Sentences
| Sentence | Meaning in Context |
|---|---|
| The construction will go ahead despite protests. | It will proceed as planned. |
| 'Can I borrow your pen?' 'Go ahead!' | Yes, please do. |
| "Don't worry -- I'll go ahead it." | Using it in a short reassurance. |
| She decided to go ahead the whole situation. | Applying the phrasal verb in context. |
Grammar Notes
Separability & Transitivity
Type: inseparable | Transitivity: intransitive
Intransitive and inseparable. Often used as an imperative to grant permission. Can be followed by 'with': go ahead with the plan.
How to Use Go Ahead
Neutral to informal. 'Go ahead' as a permission phrase is very common in spoken English.
| Register | Example / Notes |
|---|---|
| Informal / Spoken | The construction will go ahead despite protests. |
| Neutral / Written | Consider context; single-word synonyms may suit formal writing. |
Similar Phrasal Verbs
Practise Go Ahead
Practice English Phrasal Verbs
Use these exercises to master phrasal verbs in context:
Frequently Asked Questions about Go Ahead
What does "Go Ahead" mean?
"Go Ahead" means: To proceed with a plan; used to give permission. It is a intransitive phrasal verb rated CEFR B1.
Is "Go Ahead" separable or inseparable?
"Go Ahead" is inseparable. Intransitive and inseparable. Often used as an imperative to grant permission. Can be followed by 'with': go ahead with the plan.
How do I use "Go Ahead" in a sentence?
The construction will go ahead despite protests. -- in this example, 'Go Ahead' means it will proceed as planned.
What is the register of "Go Ahead"?
Neutral to informal. 'Go ahead' as a permission phrase is very common in spoken English.
What CEFR level is "Go Ahead"?
"Go Ahead" is typically taught at CEFR B1 — Intermediate level. It appears frequently in neutral to informal contexts.
What is the difference between "Go Ahead" and similar phrasal verbs?
"Go Ahead" specifically means: To proceed with a plan; used to give permission. Compare with similar verbs in the 'Similar Phrasal Verbs' section below for nuanced differences.
Can "Go Ahead" be used formally?
Neutral to informal. 'Go ahead' as a permission phrase is very common in spoken English. When writing formally, consider whether a single-word synonym might be more appropriate for the context.
Does "Go Ahead" take an object?
"Go Ahead" is intransitive. Intransitive and inseparable. Often used as an imperative to grant permission. Can be followed by 'with': go ahead with the plan.
How can I practise "Go Ahead"?
Use LexFizz's Find the Match and Flip Tiles exercises to practise 'Go Ahead' in context. Seeing it in multiple sentences helps the meaning stick.
Is "Go Ahead" used in British or American English?
"Go Ahead" is used in both British and American English, though register and frequency may vary. Neutral to informal. 'Go ahead' as a permission phrase is very common in spoken English.