Meaning trap
go ahead
proceed
to start doing something or continue after getting permission or deciding it’s okay.
Don't mix these meanings
Same phrase, different job.
to start doing something or continue after getting permission or deciding it’s okay.
Another meaning of 'go ahead' is 'happen as planned'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
- If you’re ready, you can go ahead and start the presentation.daily life
- During the exam, the teacher told us to go ahead and open our papers.IELTS speaking
Fix the pattern
Pattern: go ahead (with something) | go ahead and do something
WrongCan I start? — Yes, go ahead to start.
RightCan I start? — Yes, go ahead.
'Go ahead' stands alone as permission. Don't add 'to + verb'.
Patterngo ahead (with something) | go ahead and do something
Use it right
Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.
Granting permission, natives just say 'go ahead'. 'You have my permission to commence' is stilted.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
go ahead (and)and askand startand book itand try
Don't confuse it
Not the same as 'go on', which can mean to continue talking.
Related
- go ahead (happen as planned) — Another meaning of 'go ahead' is 'happen as planned'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.