go without

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "go without" is correct and usable in written English.
It is an idiom that means "to do without" or "to live without" something. For example, "I've decided to go without cable TV and just stream my shows online instead."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He'd sometimes go without eating.

Independent

That may go without saying.

The New York Times

"I go without my wife.

The New York Times

(Wire transfers go without saying).

The New York Times

I'd rather go without.

The New York Times

Don't go without me.

The New York Times - Arts

Now I go without.

The New Yorker

"I could go without cable, go without travel, go without eating out — maybe I could go without eating altogether".

The New York Times

"My parents would go without food.

The New Yorker

"Now I can't go without it".

The New York Times

Such remarks do not go without comment.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "go without" to emphasize a lack or deprivation, often when something is needed or expected. For example, "Many families had to "go without" basic necessities during the economic crisis."

Common error

While "go without" is common, it can sound informal in certain contexts. In formal writing, consider using more sophisticated alternatives like "forgo" or "abstain from" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "go without" functions as a verb phrase indicating a state of deprivation or the absence of something. It describes the act of enduring a lack. Examples on Ludwig illustrate its usage in various contexts, such as "He'd sometimes "go without" eating."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "go without" is a common and grammatically sound verb phrase used to describe the act of enduring the absence of something. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and the numerous examples highlight its frequent use across diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media. While versatile, it is important to avoid overuse in overly formal settings, opting for alternatives like "forgo" or "abstain from" when appropriate. Understanding its nuances and contexts ensures effective and precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

do without

A more direct synonym, emphasizing the ability to manage in the absence of something.

be without

A simpler way to express the absence of something.

forgo

Implies a voluntary act of abstaining from something.

be deprived of

Highlights the involuntary loss or denial of something.

abstain from

Suggests a deliberate choice to refrain from something, often for moral or health reasons.

lack

Indicates a deficiency or absence of something necessary or desirable.

skip

Suggests omitting or missing something, often a meal or activity.

miss out on

Implies a loss of opportunity or enjoyment due to absence.

pass up

Indicates a rejection or foregoing of something offered or available.

sacrifice

Implies giving up something valuable for a greater purpose.

FAQs

How can I use "go without" in a sentence?

You can use "go without" to indicate a lack of something. For example, "They had to "go without" food for days after the storm".

What does it mean to "go without"?

To "go without" means to endure the absence of something, often something necessary or desired. It implies a state of deprivation or lack.

What can I say instead of "go without"?

You can use alternatives like "do without", "forgo", or "abstain from" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "go without"?

Yes, "go without" is a grammatically correct and commonly used verb phrase in English. Ludwig AI confirms its validity.