andare avanti

/anˈdaːre aˈvanti/◆phrasal verb
to move forward / to carry on

Non possiamo fermarci ora, dobbiamo andare avanti!

We can't stop now, we have to move forward!

◆ What It Really Means
To persist in an effort despite challenges, implying resilience and determination.
Literal Meaning
To go forward physically or in time.
Literal Breakdown
andareto move from one place to another+avantiin a forward direction
◇ Mental Image
A person walking steadily forward on a path, undeterred by obstacles or fatigue.
◈ When to Use
Someone facing a tough project deadline says, 'Devo andare avanti anche se sono stanco' (I have to keep going even though I'm tired).
◉ Cultural Note
Reflects the Italian cultural value of perseverance ('non mollare') in adversity, common in both personal and professional contexts.
informal

To continue progressing despite difficulties or obstacles; to persist in an effort or plan.

Anche se è stanco, va avanti con il progetto.

Even though he's tired, he's carrying on with the project.

Dopo la sconfitta, la squadra ha deciso di andare avanti.

After the defeat, the team decided to move forward.

Often used in motivational or perseverance contexts.

neutral

To progress in time or sequence; to elapse.

Il tempo va avanti inesorabilmente.

Time moves forward inexorably.

Used literally to describe time passing.

Collocations

andare avanti conto proceed with / to continue withandare avanti a faticato struggle along / to barely make progressandare avanti e indietroto go back and forth / to pace

Related Phrases

andare avanti e indietrophrasal verb
to go back and forth / to pace nervously
far andare avantiphrasal verb
to keep something going / to sustain

Pro Tip

Common Mistake

Avoid translating 'andare avanti' as 'to go ahead' in all contexts. While 'go ahead' works for permission ('Vai avanti!'), it doesn't convey perseverance ('Va avanti nonostante le difficoltà').

Gold Rule

Figurative vs. Literal

Use 'andare avanti' figuratively for perseverance ('keep going') and literally for movement ('go forward'). Context determines the meaning.

Word Origin

From the Italian verbs 'andare' (to go) and 'avanti' (forward/ahead). The phrase evolved from literal movement to metaphorical persistence, common in Italian since the 18th century.

Usage Notes

Used in both literal (time, physical movement) and figurative (efforts, plans) contexts. Often implies overcoming obstacles.

Word Breakdown

andare
to go
verb
+
avanti
forward / ahead
adverb
Dizionario Italiano-Inglese
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