make a go of it

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make a go of it" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
This phrase is used to describe an attempt to do something, usually with a positive sense of trying to be successful. For example, "My brother decided to start his own business and he's really trying to make a go of it".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

C. Wonder couldn't make a go of it and shut down the last of its 32 stores earlier this year.

Los Angeles Times

"Can he make a go of it?

The New York Times - Tech

He could not make a go of it.

The Economist

They are really keen to make a go of it".

The Guardian

"They had to make a go of it.

The Guardian - Opinion

You've got to make a go of it.

The New York Times - Sports

I'm sure he could make a go of it.

The Guardian - Tech

"Bring back the Drachma and let them make a go of it with their own currency".

The New York Times

A husband-and-wife team can make a go of it on far less".

Independent

Could a runner and a willer really make a go of it?

The New York Times

Not all of the new organizations will make a go of it.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "make a go of it" when you want to convey a sense of determination and effort in trying to achieve a positive outcome, especially in situations where success is not guaranteed.

Common error

Avoid using "make a go of it" when referring to guaranteed successes or trivial tasks. This phrase implies a significant challenge and the need for considerable effort.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make a go of it" functions as an idiomatic expression signifying the act of attempting to achieve success, especially in challenging or uncertain circumstances. Ludwig AI confirms this through numerous examples where the phrase denotes effort and determination towards a positive outcome.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "make a go of it" is a common idiomatic expression that signifies the act of trying to succeed, particularly when facing challenges or uncertainties. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, primarily in news and media, indicating a neutral register. The phrase conveys a sense of determination, effort, and hope. When using the expression, it's important to consider its connotation of overcoming difficulties and avoid applying it to situations that are already guaranteed to succeed. Alternatives like "succeed" or "make it work" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make it work

Emphasizes the effort and determination required to achieve a functional or satisfactory outcome.

be successful

A more direct and general way of expressing the achievement of a desired outcome.

achieve success

Highlights the attainment of a specific goal or accomplishment.

succeed

Implies a successful outcome; a general term for achieving a goal.

prosper

Suggests thriving and flourishing, often in a financial or material sense.

flourish

Indicates a state of vigorous growth and development, applicable to various endeavors.

turn the trick

Suggests finding a clever or effective solution to overcome a challenge.

get off the ground

Focuses on the initial stages of starting something and making it operational.

cut the mustard

Refers to meeting the required standard or expectation; succeeding in a specific task.

hack it

Highlights the ability to cope with or manage a situation, especially a difficult one.

FAQs

How can I use "make a go of it" in a sentence?

You can use "make a go of it" to describe someone trying to succeed in a challenging situation. For example, "She moved to a new city to "make a go of it" with her career".

What does it mean to "make a go of it"?

To "make a go of it" means to put in the effort and determination needed to succeed, especially in a new venture or difficult circumstance. It implies a conscious effort to achieve a positive outcome despite potential obstacles.

Which is correct, "make a go of it" or "make it go"?

"Make a go of it" is an idiomatic expression with a specific meaning related to striving for success. "Make it go" is a more general phrase that could refer to causing something to function or operate, depending on the context.

What are some alternatives to "make a go of it"?

Alternatives include "succeed", "make it work", or "be successful". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.