go wrong

USAGE SUMMARY

"go wrong" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation in which something hasn't gone as planned. For example, "My plan to finish the project on time went wrong when my computer broke down."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

What could go wrong?

Yale University

Much could go wrong.

Harvard University

What can go wrong?

Cornell University

Things go wrong.

The New York Times

Everything could go wrong.

The New York Times - Arts

Expectations go wrong.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

What went wrong?

Journal of Engineering and Technology Management

What had gone wrong?

Yale University

So, what went wrong?

Columbia University

« Good science gone wrong?

University of California, Berkeley

Here it goes wrong.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing potential problems, use "go wrong" to clearly communicate the possibility of failure or malfunction. For example, in risk assessments or project planning, identify areas where things could "go wrong".

Common error

While "go wrong" is perfectly acceptable, overuse in formal contexts can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "malfunction", "fail", or "go awry" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "go wrong" primarily functions as a verb phrase. It describes the potential for failure or malfunction in a given situation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage across diverse contexts, as showcased in the examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Academia

33%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "go wrong" is a versatile and frequently used verb phrase that describes the potential for failure or malfunction. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across diverse contexts, including news, academia, and science. While it's generally appropriate for various levels of formality, be mindful of overusing it in formal writing and consider synonyms like "fail" or "malfunction". The phrase serves to express caution, analyze risks, and highlight potential negative outcomes, making it a valuable tool in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not work out

Indicates that a plan or relationship didn't succeed.

go awry

A more formal way of saying something has deviated from the intended course.

fail to succeed

Emphasizes the lack of desired achievement.

miss the mark

Suggests a failure to achieve a specific goal.

prove unsuccessful

Emphasizes the lack of a positive result.

turn sour

Suggests a negative change in circumstances.

fall apart

Highlights the disintegration or collapse of something.

become problematic

Shifts the focus to the emergence of difficulties.

take a turn for the worse

Indicates a distinct and negative change in condition.

end in disaster

Highlights a catastrophic outcome.

FAQs

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

You can use "go wrong" to describe situations where something fails or doesn't work as expected. For example: "What could "go wrong" with this plan?" or "Everything seemed to "go wrong" at once."

What are some alternatives to "go wrong"?

Alternatives include "fail", "malfunction", "go awry", or "not work out". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "went wrong"?

Yes, "went wrong" is the past tense of "go wrong" and is grammatically correct. For example: "Everything "went wrong" during the experiment."

What's the difference between "go wrong" and "turn sour"?

"Go wrong" generally refers to a failure or malfunction, while "turn sour" suggests a situation or relationship that has become unpleasant or negative. "The milk will "go wrong" if you leave it out." vs. "The deal "turned sour" after the negotiations."