things go smoothly

USAGE SUMMARY

The sentence 'Things go smoothly" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe a situation which is running without any unexpected or unwelcome complications. For example, "The team worked together very efficiently so things went smoothly and the project was completed on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

Most of the time, things go smoothly.

The New York Times

And that's if things go smoothly.

The New York Times

Here are some instructions to make sure things go smoothly.

The New Yorker

At none of them did things go smoothly.

The New York Times - Arts

If things go smoothly, Texas A&M's first season in the SEC could be 2012.

The New York Times

Who will be in charge of making sure things go smoothly?

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

But the foundation it lays will help things go smoothly--scientifically and otherwise--and it won't get in the way of the science.

Science Magazine

At first, things went smoothly.

The Guardian

But after that, things went smoothly.

The New York Times

It was not a fashion event, so things went smoothly".

The New York Times

The first few weeks, things went smoothly -- perhaps because I hardly slept or drank.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Before using "things go smoothly", consider whether a more precise phrase might better capture the specific nature of the successful outcome. For example, "the negotiation proceeded efficiently" or "the project was completed seamlessly".

Common error

Avoid phrasing sentences in a passive voice when using "things go smoothly". Instead of saying "It is hoped that things go smoothly", opt for the more direct "We hope things go smoothly".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "things go smoothly" functions as an idiomatic expression, typically used as a clause or part of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage to describe situations progressing without problems.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Wiki

8%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "things go smoothly" is a versatile and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a situation progressing without problems. Ludwig AI confirms this, highlighting its correct usage across various contexts. It is most common in News & Media, as well as informal communications, conveying a sense of ease and lack of complications. While alternatives exist to add nuance, the phrase remains a straightforward and effective way to express hope or satisfaction with a process unfolding as expected. Be mindful of overusing passive voice and consider the specific context to ensure the phrase aligns with the desired tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

everything proceeds without a hitch

This alternative emphasizes the absence of any obstacles or unexpected problems.

everything unfolds seamlessly

This highlights the smooth and continuous nature of the process.

everything runs like clockwork

This suggests a high level of precision and efficiency.

everything progresses without difficulty

This explicitly states the lack of challenges or obstacles.

everything works out fine

This conveys a positive outcome and lack of problems.

everything proceeds as planned

This emphasizes that the original plan is being followed without deviations.

everything falls into place

This suggests a natural and harmonious alignment of events.

everything comes together nicely

This emphasizes the pleasing and well-integrated nature of the process.

all goes according to plan

This variation highlights adherence to a pre-established strategy.

everything operates efficiently

This focuses on the effective and productive nature of the process.

FAQs

How can I use "things go smoothly" in a sentence?

You can use "things go smoothly" to describe a process or situation that is progressing without problems. For example, "We've planned carefully, so we expect "things go smoothly" during the event".

What does "things go smoothly" mean?

"Things go smoothly" means that a situation or process is developing or progressing without any problems, obstacles, or difficulties.

Which is correct: "things go smoothly" or "things went smoothly"?

Both phrases are correct, but they refer to different time frames. "Things go smoothly" is used to describe something that is currently happening or expected to happen, while "things went smoothly" describes something that has already happened. For example, "I hope "things go smoothly" at the meeting tomorrow" versus "Things went smoothly during the presentation yesterday".

What can I say instead of "things go smoothly"?

Alternatives to "things go smoothly" include "everything proceeds without a hitch", "everything unfolds seamlessly", or "everything runs like clockwork", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.