- An expression of encouragement, telling someone to pursue an opportunity, idea, or course of action, especially when they are hesitant.
Explanation
Origin
- Straightforward encouragement to move towards (go for) a goal (it).
- Common informal expression, likely mid-20th century or earlier.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Get it! (Encouragement, often for achieving something, like Go get 'em!)
- Shoot your shot. (Encouragement to take a chance, esp. romantically or applying for something where success isn't guaranteed)
- YOLO. (Acronym for You Only Live Once used to justify taking a chance or doing something bold/fun, associated with early 2010s internet culture, can sound dated)
Milder/More Formal:
- I encourage you to proceed.
- It seems like a good opportunity.
- You have my support.
Situational Appropriateness
- Informal.
- Very common and generally positive.
- Suitable for encouraging friends, family, or colleagues (in casual contexts).
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Very unlikely to be misunderstood.
- It's straightforward encouragement.
Examples
- A: I'm thinking of applying for that job, but I'm not sure if I'm qualified. B: Go for it! What have you got to lose?
- A: Should I ask her out? B: Yeah, go for it!
- If you want to try the spicy wings, go for it!
Dialogue
Maria: I baked these cookies. They're a new recipe, I don't know if they're any good. Want to try one?
David: Sure!
Maria: Okay, but don't blame me if they're weird.
David: (Takes a bite) Mmm, these are great! You were worried for nothing. You should definitely make these again. If you're thinking of entering the bake sale, go for it!
Maria: Really? You think so? Okay, I will!
Social Media Examples
- Post: Thinking of starting a blog... nervous! Comment: Go for it! You'd be great!
- Tweet: Should I cut my own bangs? Yes/No Reply: Go for it! Hair grows back! 😉
- DM: Friend 1: Saw this cool volunteer opportunity, kinda wanna apply. Friend 2: Dude, go for it!!
Response Patterns
- The hesitant person might feel encouraged: Okay, maybe I will! or Thanks!
- They might still express doubts: I don't know...
- They might proceed with the action.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After being encouraged to go for it:
- The person might take the suggested action.
- The encourager might ask later, So, did you go for it?
- The conversation might shift to planning how to go for it. Okay, how should I approach it?
Conversation Starter
- No.
- It's a response offering encouragement.
Intonation
- Usually enthusiastic and encouraging.
- Stress on Go and it.
- Often with a rising, positive intonation. GO for it!
Generation Differences
- Extremely common across all generations.
Regional Variations
- Universal in English-speaking regions.