How to say “go ahead” like a native speaker
Give permission to proceed or tell someone to speak. It can also describe continuing with a plan.
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Hear “go ahead” in real speech
Clip 1 · VOA Learning English
Sew and Knit, Adverbs, Yellowstone, Open Boat 2 · 19:05
About this video
Caty Weaver and Mario Ritter Jr. introduce a VOA Learning English programme with language lessons and stories. Topics include sewing and knitting, adverbs, Yellowstone and a reading of The Open Boat.
In context
Shall I take you to see you again, Captain?Yes, go ahead, said the captain.
The sailor turned the boat and took her safely out to sea again.
Clip 2 · Arthur Benjamin
Lightning calculation and other "mathemagic" | Arthur Benjamin · 11:43
About this video
Arthur Benjamin introduces himself as a “mathemagician” and combines mathematics with a stage demonstration. He invites audience members with calculators to take part as he performs rapid calculations.
In context
Let's do the row before you, starting with you: one, two, three, four, five.Call out a single digit -- that will be the five-digit number that I will try to square, go ahead.
Five.
Clip 3 · Speak English With Vanessa
Listen and Repeat: SPEAK with me in English · 3:28
About this video
Vanessa leads a listen-and-repeat English lesson using versions of sentences at different levels. The practice includes ways to talk about staying at home during the summer.
In context
Now you can say this advanced sentence as well.Go ahead. Excellent work.
Do you see how with each level we're getting slightly more complex,
When to use “go ahead”
- Giving permission: “Can I open the window?” “Yes, go ahead.”
- Inviting someone to speak first: “You had a question? Go ahead.”
Possible connected-speech patterns in “go ahead”
A light W-like glide can link “go” into “ahead”. “Ahead” stresses its second syllable.
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