SpeakUp

Meaning trap

go ahead

happen as planned

to take place or happen as planned, especially after some doubt or delay.

phrasal verbB2common

Don't mix these meanings

Same phrase, different job.

happen as planned

to take place or happen as planned, especially after some doubt or delay.

go ahead (proceed)

Another meaning of 'go ahead' is 'proceed'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.

View meaning map

Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • Despite the rain, the outdoor concert will go ahead as planned.work
  • Our school trip didn’t go ahead last year because of the pandemic.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: go ahead (with something)

WrongThe wedding will go ahead with the plan.

RightThe wedding will go ahead as planned.

The fixed phrase is 'go ahead (as planned)'. Don't tack on 'with the plan'.

Patterngo ahead (with something)

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff The conference will proceed as scheduled despite the weather.

Natural The conference is going ahead despite the weather.

'Go ahead' is the natural verb for an event still happening. 'Proceed as scheduled' is announcement-speak.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • go ahead
    the eventthe matchthe weddingthe deal

Don't confuse it

Different from 'go on', which is more about continuing than starting after a delay.

Try it in Daily Speak →