go to the post

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "go to the post" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to going to a postal service location or a specific post, such as a post office or a designated area for mail collection. Example: "I need to go to the post to send this package before the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Let's go to the post office".

The New Yorker

There's no need to go to the post office.

The New York Times

"You have to go to the post office.

The New York Times

Could you go to the post office on Rue de… No.

The New Yorker

Could you go to the post office on Rue de... No.

The New Yorker

You go to the post office and find out that there is no money.

The Guardian

There is no home delivery; residents go to the post office to collect their mail.

The New York Times

"Excuses include: I have to go to the post office, I have to do my laundry.

The New York Times

"But that doesn't mean he doesn't go to the post a favorite.

The New York Times - Magazine

"I just go to the post office because it's just safer," said Ms. Temple, 65.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

They're the guys we take to the dance and we hope we go to the post-season".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "go to the post", ensure the context clearly indicates whether you're referring to a physical post office location or a specific post/position (e.g., in sports). Clarify with additional details if needed.

Common error

Avoid using "go to the post" in contexts where it could be misinterpreted as referring to a social media post or a job posting. Instead, specify "go to the post office" or use more precise language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "go to the post" functions primarily as a verb phrase indicating the action of traveling to a specific location. As Ludwig AI suggests, the phrase refers to visiting a postal service location, as shown in the examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "go to the post" is a very common and grammatically correct phrase used primarily to indicate the act of visiting a post office. As per Ludwig AI, its neutral register makes it appropriate for a variety of contexts, but ensuring clarity is key to avoid misinterpretations, especially when a more precise term like "go to the post office" might be necessary. The phrase is frequently found in news media and academic writings, confirming its wide acceptance and usability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

visit the post office

Replaces the verb "go" with "visit", focusing on the action of being at the post office.

head to the post office

Uses "head to" instead of "go to", suggesting a direction or intention to go.

go to the postal service

Substitutes "post" with "postal service", clarifying the type of institution.

stop by the post office

Suggests a brief visit to the post office, implying a short duration.

make a trip to the post office

Emphasizes the journey or errand to the post office.

run to the post office

Implies a quick or urgent visit to the post office.

swing by the post office

Similar to "stop by", suggesting a casual and quick visit.

go to mail a letter

Focuses on the purpose of going to the post office – mailing a letter.

go to send a package

Highlights the act of sending a package as the reason for going.

go to collect mail

Indicates that the reason for going to the post is to pick up mail.

FAQs

What does "go to the post" mean?

The phrase "go to the post" typically refers to visiting a post office to mail items, collect mail, or use postal services. It can also refer to a starting position in horse racing.

What is a more formal way to say "go to the post"?

In a more formal context, you can use "visit the post office" or "attend to postal matters".

When should I use "go to the post office" instead of "go to the post"?

Use "go to the post office" to avoid ambiguity, especially when the context doesn't clearly indicate you are referring to postal services. "Go to the post" is acceptable when the context is already established.

Are there any regional differences in using "go to the post"?

While generally understood, the phrase "go to the post" may be more common in certain English-speaking regions. "Go to the post office" is universally recognized.