it could go

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it could go" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express a possibility or potential outcome in various contexts, often when discussing options or scenarios. Example: "If we don't address the issue now, it could go unresolved for a long time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It could go wrong.

Independent

It could go further.

The Economist

It could go anywhere.

The New York Times

It could go too far.

The Economist

"It could go so wrong.

The New York Times

"It could go higher".

The New York Times

It could go very right or it could go wrong".

The New York Times

But, finally, it could go no further.

The New York Times - Sports

And it could go up again.

The New York Times

"It could go either way," he said.

The New York Times

It could go either way, this one.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it could go" to express uncertainty about a future outcome, especially when discussing multiple possibilities. For example, "The negotiations are delicate; "it could go" either way".

Common error

While acceptable in most contexts, avoid overusing "it could go" in formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise language to convey possibility or potential outcomes. For instance, instead of "The project "it could go" over budget", use "The project might exceed its budget" or "The project has the potential to exceed its budget".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it could go" functions as a modal phrase expressing possibility or potential. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct. The modal verb 'could' indicates a degree of uncertainty about the outcome, while 'go' implies a direction or progression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it could go" is a versatile phrase used to express potential outcomes and uncertainty, as confirmed by Ludwig. Grammatically sound and widely used, it appears most frequently in news and media contexts. While generally neutral in tone, more formal alternatives are available for academic or professional settings. Remember to consider the context and desired level of formality when incorporating "it could go" into your writing to ensure clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it might proceed

Replaces "could" with "might", suggesting a slightly lower probability.

it may continue

Substitutes "could" with "may", also indicating possibility, and uses "continue" to emphasize ongoing action.

it has the potential to advance

Replaces the simple verb "go" with a more formal expression of potential progress.

the possibility exists for it to unfold

This alternative uses a more elaborate structure to convey potential development or revelation.

it is liable to happen

Emphasizes the likelihood of an event occurring, implying a certain susceptibility.

it is possible for it to transpire

Uses a more formal and somewhat elevated vocabulary to suggest possibility and occurrence.

it is conceivable that it will move

This phrase stresses the conceivability of movement or progression.

the prospect of it evolving is present

Highlights the potential for development or change, framing it as a prospect.

it remains a chance that it will advance

Focuses on the remaining possibility of forward movement or progress.

it stands a chance of progressing

Highlights the likelihood of an event occurring, implying a certain susceptibility.

FAQs

How can I use "it could go" in a sentence?

Use "it could go" to indicate a possible future outcome. For example: "If we invest in this company, "it could go" very well" or "The situation is tense; "it could go" badly wrong".

What does "it could go either way" mean?

"It could go either way" means that there are two possible outcomes, and either one is equally likely. For example: "The game is very close; "it could go either way"".

What can I say instead of "it could go"?

You can use alternatives like "it might proceed", "it may continue", or "it has the potential to advance" depending on the context.

Is "it could go" formal or informal?

"It could go" is generally considered neutral in formality and can be used in most contexts, but more formal alternatives might be preferred in academic or professional writing. Consider using phrases like "it is liable to happen" or "it is possible for it to transpire" for more formal situations.