go for — choose or try to get
phrasal verbB1IELTS 5+neutralcore
to choose something or try to get or achieve it, often because you want it or think it's the best option.
Say it like a native
Textbook I have decided to select the chicken option.
Native I think I'll go for the chicken.
'Go for' is the casual way to say you've chosen off a menu or list. 'Select the option' is formal.
Pattern: go for + noun/gerund
In use
- If you're not sure which dessert to have, I recommend you go for the chocolate cake.daily life
- If I had the chance to study abroad, I would definitely go for it because I love experiencing new cultures.IELTS speaking
Common mistake
✗ I'll go for to the pasta.
✓ I'll go for the pasta.
'Go for + thing' directly — no 'to'.
Common collocations
go for + choice— the cheaper one, it, the special, the safe option
Don't confuse it
Not about physically going somewhere, but about making a choice or effort.
Related
- go for (attack) — Another meaning of 'go for' is 'attack'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.