could only go so far

USAGE SUMMARY

"could only go so far" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that someone or something had a limited range or scope of influence, success, or progress. For example, " Though we worked hard to improve their living conditions, our efforts could only go so far."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

Persuasion and negotiation could only go so far.

The New Yorker

But the business could only go so far.

The New York Times

After all, such language exchange could only go so far in such a class-based society.

The Guardian

However other experts warned the comparison could only go so far.

The Guardian

But he cautioned that this approach could only go so far.

The New York Times - Arts

Dr. Taber said that finding indicated that removing sugary drinks from school campuses, while effective, could only go so far.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

The tagline was unique for its time in that it acknowledged that Nike products could only go so far--consumers first had to be ready to make the lifestyle changes athletic activity entails.

Forbes

And as the prices of labor and supplies rise, principals could find that this year's budget can only go so far to cover next year's costs.

The New York Times

Transparency can only go so far.

The New York Times

"We can only go so far".

The New York Times

Conservation can only go so far.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "could only go so far", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being limited and why. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "could only go so far" when you mean something was completely ineffective. This phrase implies partial success or influence, not total failure.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could only go so far" functions as a qualifier, indicating the extent or limit to which an action, effort, or resource could be effective or successful. As Ludwig AI states, it implies a restriction in range, scope, or progress.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "could only go so far" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to indicate limitations in scope, influence, or progress. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a versatile phrase found across various contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and business domains. The phrase implies that while some effort or action was taken, its impact was restricted. Alternatives like "was limited in scope" or "reached its limitations" offer similar meanings with slight variations. When using this phrase, clarity is key to ensure the context of the limitation is well-understood.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

could only extend to a certain point

Replaces "go so far" with "extend to a certain point", focusing on the limit of reach.

was limited in scope

Shifts from a directional metaphor to a direct statement of limited scope.

couldn't achieve more than that

Focuses on the inability to surpass a certain level of achievement.

reached its limitations

Highlights the point at which progress or effectiveness stopped.

had a finite capacity

Emphasizes the restricted ability or potential.

could progress only to a degree

Replaces "go so far" with "progress only to a degree", indicating a partial advancement.

was restricted in its application

Focuses on the limited applicability of something.

only had a certain range

Stresses the limited scope or extent of something.

the possibilities were limited

Highlights the constraints on what could be achieved or done.

the impact was not unlimited

Emphasizes that the effect or influence did not extend without bounds.

FAQs

How can I use "could only go so far" in a sentence?

You can use "could only go so far" to indicate that something or someone had limited influence, success, or progress. For example, "Though we implemented several strategies, our efforts "could only go so far" in reducing the deficit".

What are some alternatives to "could only go so far"?

Alternatives include phrases like "was limited in scope", "reached its limitations", or "had a finite capacity", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "can only go so far" instead of "could only go so far"?

Both "can only go so far" and "could only go so far" are grammatically correct, but they indicate different tenses. "Can only go so far" refers to a present or general limitation, while "could only go so far" refers to a past limitation.

What's the difference between "could only go so far" and "didn't go far enough"?

"Could only go so far" suggests a limitation was reached, while "didn't go far enough" implies that more progress was needed or expected but wasn't achieved. The former focuses on inherent limits, the latter on insufficient progress.