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.
During the exam, the teacher told us to go ahead and open our papers.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: Can I start? — Yes, go ahead to start.
Say: Can I start? — Yes, go ahead.
'Go ahead' stands alone as permission. Don't add 'to + verb'.
Which sounds natural?
Tap the one a native speaker would say.
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 ask
- and start
- and book it
- and try
Don't confuse it
Related
Other meanings and phrases to compare.
- go ahead (happen as planned) — Another meaning of 'go ahead' is 'happen as planned'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.