go

"Go" is one of the most common and versatile verbs in English — it has dozens of uses! Here are the most important ones a learner needs to know. Once you understand these core senses, you will start noticing "go" everywhere.

This is the most basic meaning. When you move from one place to another — by walking, driving, flying, or any other way — you 'go'. Think of it as the opposite of staying still.

everyday language · Modern, widely used

Are you going to the party on Friday?

everyday language · Modern, widely used

It's getting late — I really have to go.

everyday language · Modern, widely used

The milk went bad because I left it out of the fridge.

His hair went grey when he was only thirty.

When you talk about a machine or a system operating the way it should, you can say it 'goes'. This is similar to saying something 'works' or 'runs'.

everyday language · Modern, widely used

Once you press the button, the machine will go.

5verbfigurativeprogress / turn out

When you want to talk about how a situation, event, or experience develops or ends up, you use 'go'. It answers the question: how did things turn out?

everyday language · Modern, widely used · figurative

How did your job interview go?

The first day of school didn't go as I had hoped.

6nounan attempt / a try

As a noun, 'go' means one attempt or try at something. If you 'have a go' at something, you are trying it — often for the first time or after a challenge.

everyday language · Modern, widely used

I had never played chess before, but I decided to have a go.

She solved the puzzle on her first go.

Do you want a go on my new bicycle?