can only go

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can only go" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a limitation or restriction on movement or options available in a particular context. Example: "In this situation, we can only go forward and not look back."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

You can only go up".

The New York Times - Sports

We can only go forward".

The New York Times - Books

Art can only go so far.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Transparency can only go so far.

The New York Times

"It can only go downhill, right?

The New York Times - Sports

"We can only go so far".

The New York Times

Conservation can only go so far.

The New York Times

Prayer can only go so far.

The New York Times - Sports

We can only go up".

The Guardian

We can only go downhill".

The Guardian - Film

Populist leaders can only go so far".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can only go" to describe a situation with limited options, ensure the context clearly defines what those options are. This helps avoid ambiguity and ensures the reader understands the constraints.

Common error

Avoid using "can only go" without clearly indicating the boundaries of what is permissible or possible. Overlooking this can lead to misinterpretations and confusion about the actual limitations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can only go" functions as a modal verb phrase indicating a limitation or restriction on possible actions or directions. As evidenced by the examples provided by Ludwig, it sets boundaries on what is permissible or feasible in a given situation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can only go" is a versatile modal verb phrase used to express limitations, directions, or inevitabilities. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, primarily in news and media. When using "can only go", ensure that the context clearly defines the scope of the limitation to avoid ambiguity. While generally neutral in tone, consider more formal alternatives like "is limited to" or "must proceed" in professional settings. By understanding its function and context, writers can effectively use "can only go" to convey precise meaning and avoid misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can solely proceed

Emphasizes the exclusivity of the available course of action.

can exclusively proceed

Highlights that there are no alternatives for proceeding but this one.

is limited to

Emphasizes the restriction to a specific set of options or possibilities.

is restricted to

Similar to "is limited to", but with a stronger connotation of imposed constraints.

is confined to

Suggests a physical or metaphorical enclosure or boundary.

must proceed

Focuses on the necessity of moving forward in a particular direction.

can just proceed

Indicates a simple and direct action of advancing forward, with a connotation of ease or lack of obstacle.

is destined to

Implies a predetermined outcome or fate.

is bound to

Similar to "is destined to", but with a slightly weaker connotation of inevitability.

has no choice but to

Highlights the lack of alternatives or options.

FAQs

How can I use "can only go" in a sentence?

You can use "can only go" to express that there are limited options or a specific direction to follow. For example, "After this point, we "can only go forward"" or "Due to budget cuts, we "can only go so far" with the project".

What's a formal way to say "can only go"?

In formal contexts, you might replace "can only go" with phrases like "is limited to", "is restricted to", or "must proceed" to maintain a professional tone.

Is it ever wrong to use "can only go"?

While grammatically correct, "can only go" might be too informal for some contexts. Ensure that the tone and register of your writing align with the intended audience and purpose. If necessary, consider using more formal alternatives.

What is the difference between "can only go forward" and "must go forward"?

"Can only go forward" implies that there are no other options but to move ahead. "Must go forward", on the other hand, suggests a stronger obligation or necessity to advance, potentially driven by external factors or requirements.