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go for it

/ɡoʊ fər ɪt/
phrasal verb★Intermediate💡 take a chance◆phrasal verb
◆ What It Really Means
To take decisive action with enthusiasm and confidence, often despite potential risks or lack of guarantees.
¶ Literal Meaning
To physically move toward something or pursue a goal.
Literal Breakdown
goto move or proceed+for itto pursue or seek something
◇ Mental Image
A mental picture of someone running toward a goal with determination, symbolizing enthusiasm and boldness.
◈ When to Use
At a career workshop, a mentor tells a hesitant attendee: 'You have great skills—go for it and apply for that leadership position!'
◉ Cultural Note
The phrase reflects a cultural emphasis on initiative and self-confidence in English-speaking societies, particularly in Western contexts where individualism and proactive behavior are valued.
informal

To attempt something enthusiastically or without hesitation, despite potential risks or uncertainty.

You should go for it and apply for the job even if you don't meet all the requirements.

Encouragement to pursue an opportunity without overthinking.

She decided to go for it and start her own business.

Demonstrates decisive action toward a challenging goal.

💡

Often used in motivational or supportive contexts to encourage someone to take action.

Collocations

just go for ita more emphatic version of the phraseshould go for itadvice to take the opportunity

Synonyms

take a chancegive it a trytake the plungego ahead

Antonyms

hold backhesitatethink twice

Related Phrases

take a riskphrase
to do something that may have negative consequences
go all outphrasal verb
to make maximum effort

💡Pro Tip

When to use 'go for it'

Use this phrase when you want to encourage someone to take an opportunity or try something new, even if it's challenging. It implies confidence and support.

⚡Gold Rule

Avoid overusing

While 'go for it' is encouraging, don't use it in formal or professional settings where a more measured approach (e.g., 'I recommend pursuing this opportunity') may be more appropriate.

📖Word Origin

The phrase originated in the early 20th century as a combination of 'go' (to proceed) and 'for it' (to pursue a goal or face consequences). The idiomatic meaning developed from the literal sense of physically pursuing something.

📝Usage Notes

Common in spoken English, especially in informal or encouraging contexts. Often used to motivate someone to act despite fear or uncertainty.

Word Breakdown

go
to proceed or move forward
verb
+
for it
to pursue a goal or face consequences
prepositional phrase
English Dictionary

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