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go ahead — 2 meanings

One phrase, 2 meanings. Learn them one at a time, then test yourself.

phrasal verb2 meanings
go ahead
proceedhappen as planned

Meaning 1 · most common

proceed

  • go ahead with sth
A scene showing “go ahead” meaning “start after permission”.

to start doing something or continue after getting permission or deciding it’s okay.

How oftenVery common
LevelB1
Used inMostly spoken

Examples

If you’re ready, you can go ahead and start the presentation.

A: Is it okay if I ask a question now?
B: Sure, go ahead.

Common mistake

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'.

More on “proceed”Another example · Tell it apart · Goes with · Tip

Another example

During the exam, the teacher told us to go ahead and open our papers.

Tell it apart

Go ahead, ask me anything.

  • permission / encouragement

The project went ahead.

  • it took place

Goes with

  • go ahead (and)
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Next meaning: happen as planned

Meaning 2

happen as planned

  • go ahead with sth
A scene showing “go ahead” meaning “happen as planned”.

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

How oftenCommon
LevelB2
Used inSpeech & writing

Examples

Despite the rain, the outdoor concert will go ahead as planned.

A: Is the meeting still on for tomorrow?
B: Yes, it will go ahead as scheduled.

Common mistake

Not: The wedding will go ahead with the plan.

Say: The wedding will go ahead as planned.

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

More on “happen as planned”Another example · Tell it apart · Goes with · Tip

Another example

Our school trip didn’t go ahead last year because of the pandemic.

Tell it apart

The match is going ahead.

  • taking place after doubt

Go ahead and start.

  • you have permission

Goes with

  • go ahead
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proceedhappen as planned