go then

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "go then" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to give permission or encouragement for someone to leave or proceed with an action. Example: "If you feel ready to take the next step in your journey, go then and make it happen."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Go, then".

The New Yorker

Yes? Let's go then.

The New Yorker

Off you go then.

The New Yorker

Here we go then.

The Guardian

"There's nowhere to go then".

The New York Times - Arts

Where do we go then?

The New York Times - Sports

In they go, then.

The Guardian - Sport

Here you go, then!

The Guardian

"Go, then," Nachman said.

The New Yorker

There you go then.

The Guardian - Film

"Where are we supposed to go then?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "go then" to give encouragement or permission to someone to proceed with an action, ensuring the context clearly indicates a conditional or sequential relationship.

Common error

Avoid using "go then" in situations where there's no preceding condition or clear sequence of events. Ensure the context implies that the action of going is dependent on something already stated or understood.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "go then" functions as an imperative construction that combines the action of "go" with the sequential connector "then". It commonly serves to provide permission or encouragement, suggesting that an action should proceed based on a prior condition or statement, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "go then" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to provide permission or encouragement for someone to proceed with an action. Ludwig confirms its validity and frequent usage across various contexts, most prominently in News & Media. While it carries a neutral tone suitable for general conversation, it should be used with attention to the implicit conditional context. Alternatives such as "proceed then" or "you may go" can offer a more formal tone. Understanding the conditional nature and avoiding misuse are crucial for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

proceed then

Emphasizes a continuation or movement forward after a condition is met.

in that case, go

Specifically highlights that the action of going is conditional upon a previous statement or situation.

if that's the case, go

Similar to 'in that case, go' but with a slightly more explicit condition.

you may go

More formal and direct way of granting permission to leave or start something.

be on your way

Encourages someone to start their journey or task immediately.

off you go

Informal and encouraging way to tell someone to start or leave.

get going

Implies a need for urgency or promptness in starting an action.

start then

Focuses on the initiation of an action or process.

away you go

Similar to 'off you go', but slightly more emphatic and encouraging.

so, go ahead

Indicates permission or invitation to proceed, often after some hesitation.

FAQs

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

You can use "go then" to give someone permission to leave or start something after a condition has been met. For example, "If you're ready, "go then" and make it happen."

What's a more formal alternative to "go then"?

A more formal alternative would be "you may proceed". This phrase is suitable for professional settings where a higher degree of formality is required.

When is it appropriate to use "go then"?

"Go then" is appropriate when you want to encourage someone to take action after a condition is satisfied or a decision has been made. It implies a sequence of events.

Can "go then" be used in questions?

While less common, "go then" can be used in a question to challenge or express disbelief. For example, "If you think it's that easy, "go then" and try it yourself."