go low

USAGE SUMMARY

"go low" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used as a command or an imperative statement, instructing someone to physically lower themselves or to adopt a humble or unassuming attitude. Example: "During the dance competition, the choreographer told the dancers to 'go low' during the chorus of the song. Their synchronized movements as they bent their knees and lowered themselves to the ground added an impressive visual element to the routine."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

General

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Go low!

The Guardian - Sport

Go low ISO.

The New York Times

When to go low.

The Guardian - Sport

Go low, people!

The Guardian - Sport

He wasn't afraid to go low".

The New York Times - Sports

"You go low or you go home".

The New York Times - Sports

This was the day to go low.

The New York Times - Sports

You never know who is going to go low.

The New York Times - Sports

With no wind, you can really go low.

The New York Times - Sports

"Guys are going to continue to go low.

The New York Times - Sports

"Go low and go slow" were the watchwords.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In political discourse, be mindful of the connotations. While "go low" can signify directness, it may also imply unethical tactics. Consider the audience and the desired impact.

Common error

Avoid using "go low" when a more nuanced or respectful term is appropriate. The phrase can be perceived negatively, especially in sensitive or formal situations. Always consider the potential impact on your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "go low" primarily functions as an imperative, urging action or a change in approach. It is often used to encourage someone to reduce something, whether it's a score in sports, standards, or even ethical considerations, as illustrated by Ludwig and the provided examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Sports

25%

General

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "go low" is a versatile imperative with diverse applications, ranging from sports to ethics. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and commonly used. Its meaning shifts contextually: in golf, it encourages a low score; in politics, it can refer to direct or even unethical tactics; and in general usage, it may advise reducing standards or expectations. Michelle Obama's famous quote provides a contrasting perspective, advocating for a "high" road. When writing, remember that the connotation of "go low" can be negative, so mindful consideration of your audience is crucial.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take the low road

Implies choosing a less honorable or ethical path.

lower your standards

This alternative focuses on reducing expectations or criteria.

reduce your expectations

This phrase emphasizes adjusting one's anticipated outcomes to a lower level.

descend to a lower level

Focuses on physically or metaphorically moving downwards.

adopt a humble approach

This suggests taking on a modest and unassuming attitude.

aim for a lower position

This alternative concentrates on attempting to achieve a reduced rank or status.

stoop to conquer

This idiom means to degrade oneself temporarily to achieve a goal.

become less ambitious

Suggests diminishing one's aspirations or goals.

degrade yourself

Implies lowering one's own dignity or moral character.

reduce to a minimum

This focuses on diminishing something to its smallest possible amount.

FAQs

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

The phrase "go low" can be used in various contexts. For example, in golf, it means to aim for a lower score. Michelle Obama famously said, "When they "go low", we go high", advocating for a more ethical response to negativity.

What does "go low" mean in golf?

In golf, "go low" means to aim for and achieve a low score in a round. It's a common encouragement for golfers to play their best and minimize their strokes.

Is it always negative to say someone will "go low"?

While "go low" can imply unethical or underhanded tactics, it's not always negative. In some contexts, it simply means being direct or assertive. However, it's crucial to consider the potential connotations and audience perception.

What is Michelle Obama's quote related to "go low"?

Michelle Obama's well-known quote is: "When they "go low", we go high". It encourages taking a more virtuous path in response to negative or unethical behavior.