10 Creative Uses of the Word Go in Phrasal Verbs

It’s common knowledge that there are a huge number of phrasal verbs in English.

While it’s impossible to cover every way to use the English word “go” in phrasal verbs in just one article, I will focus on some of the most commonly used expressions that feature it.

Remember, a phrasal verb is an expression that contains a verb and another element, typically an adverb or preposition.

•      Go off

This English phrasal verb refers to the act of making a loud noise, exploding, or bursting. Additionally, it can signify the decision to stop consuming a particular type of food.

It does not mean to leave a room or location, at it might seem at first glance.

Examples:

My alarm clock went off at 7 a.m.

I’m going off dairy products, as I think I have an allergy to milk.

•      Go over

This phrasal verb refers to the act of reviewing a text—whether it’s rereading for deeper understanding, checking for errors, or simply getting acquainted with the material.

For example:

You should go over the report. = You should look through it carefully before submitting.

•      Go through

Beyond its original definition of “to review or check,” this phrasal verb also conveys the idea of experiencing a particular situation, often one that is challenging or difficult.

Let’s look at some examples:

I went through the reports.

She went through an awful divorce.

•      Go with

This phrasal verb means to match or to be in harmony with. It’s often used when talking about clothing.

Example:

The grey shirt goes well with denim, don’t you think?

•    Go back on

This phrasal verb refers to the act of breaking a promise or failing to follow through on one’s commitments. It conveys a sense of disappointment in not doing what was promised. A comparable expression is “to let down.”

For example:

John has gone back on his word, so I can’t trust him anymore.

•      Go down

The meaning of this phrasal verb is to reduce or decrease.

For example:

The stock market suddenly went down.

•      Go on with

No matter the circumstances, stick to the plan—this means to keep taking action. This is the essence of the phrasal verb in English.

Look at an example:

You should go on with our plan. Don’t let me down.

•      Go in for

Have you ever heard the expression “go in for sports”? This phrasal verb means to participate in an activity or to start doing something on a regular basis. While it’s often associated with sports, it can also apply to a variety of other interests and pursuits.

Example:

Are you going in for the test?

•      Go without

This phrasal verb means to abstain, not to take part, dispense with something that is not particularly necessary.

For example:

A camel can go without water for many months.

I can’t go without coffee for even one day. = I’m so addicted to it.

•  Go out with

The final phrasal verb we’ll explore is “go out with,” which refers to dating someone or being in a romantic relationship.

For example:

Jason and Mary went out with each other for 3 years before they got engaged.

“I personally believe we developed language because of our deep inner need to complain.” – Jane Wagner

And that’s all.

See you in the world of fascinating English!

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