The phrasal verb "go ahead" is widely used in both informal and formal contexts, though it tends to be slightly more common in informal speech due to its directness and simplicity. In informal speech, "go ahead" can be used to give permission or to encourage someone to proceed with an action, for instance, "Go ahead, start the meeting without me." In formal contexts, it might appear in meetings or professional scenarios when granting permission or indicating that one may proceed, such as "Please, go ahead and present your report." Additionally, it can also convey a sense of continuing with an action after a pause or delay, as in "After resolving the issues, we can go ahead with the project." The usage of "go ahead" emphasizes taking initiative, advancing, or giving approval, making it a versatile and practical phrasal verb in both everyday conversation and structured environments.
B1
PreIntermediate
1. To proceed with something, often after permission has been given.
Once the meeting was over, they decided to go ahead with the project proposal.
The weather looked clear, so the race organizers gave the signal to go ahead.
2. To begin a task or activity.
She is going ahead with her studies regardless of the challenges.
Despite the doubts, they went ahead and launched the product.