this could go

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this could go" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate the potential direction or outcome of a situation or idea. Example: "If we don't address the issue now, this could go in a direction we won't be able to control."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This could go on forever.

The New York Times - Arts

This could go several ways.

University of California, Berkeley

This could go on for some time.

The New York Times

"This could go on for years".

The New York Times

This could go on for years yet.

Independent

"The concern is where this could go.

The Telegraph

"You're telling them, 'This could go places.

The New York Times

This could go on all night.

The Guardian - Sport

"This could go either way," he said.

The New York Times

This could go on for ever.

The Guardian - Sport

But this could go on for years".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "this could go", consider adding a clarifying phrase to specify the direction or outcome being discussed (e.g., "This could go either way", "This could go on for years").

Common error

Avoid using "this could go" in situations where a more precise verb or phrase would provide greater clarity. Overusing general phrases can weaken your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this could go" functions as a modal phrase expressing possibility or potential outcomes. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase indicates a future action or state that is not certain but is within the realm of possibility. Examples show it used to speculate on the duration or direction of events.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Science

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this could go" is a versatile phrase used to express possibility and speculation about future events. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. Its neutral tone and common usage make it suitable for diverse contexts, especially in news, general discussions, and professional settings. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the direction or outcome you are considering. While widely applicable, overuse without specificity should be avoided to maintain clarity in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this could develop

Replaces 'go' with 'develop' to highlight the evolution of a situation.

this could evolve

Similar to 'develop', but with a stronger connotation of gradual change.

this could lead to

Replaces 'go' with 'lead to', emphasizing the direction or path a situation might take.

this might turn out

Changes 'go' to 'turn out' to focus on the eventual result or consequence.

this could play out

Suggests a more theatrical or dramatic unfolding of events.

this might proceed

Replaces 'could' with 'might' and 'go' with 'proceed', altering the emphasis slightly towards the process rather than just the outcome.

this may unfold

Substitutes 'could' with 'may' and 'go' with 'unfold', suggesting a gradual revelation of events.

this may result

Replaces 'could go' with 'may result' to directly indicate a potential consequence.

this may come about

Indicates the potential for something to occur or materialize.

this might transpire

A more formal way of saying 'this might happen or occur'.

FAQs

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

You can use "this could go" to express the potential development or outcome of a situation, like "This could go on for a long time" or "This could go either way".

What are some alternatives to saying "this could go"?

Alternatives include phrases like "this might proceed", "this may unfold", or "this could develop", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "this could go"?

"This could go" is suitable when you want to express uncertainty or a range of possible outcomes. It's appropriate in both formal and informal contexts.

Is there a difference between "this could go" and "this might go"?

The difference is subtle, but "could" suggests a slightly higher probability than "might". Both express possibility, but "this could go" implies a bit more potential for the event to occur.