# go ahead with

CEFR B1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/go-ahead-with
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to start doing something that you have planned or asked permission for.

For teachers: to proceed with a planned course of action, often following a period of deliberation or after receiving formal authorization.

## Examples

- We decided to go ahead with the party despite the rain.
- The council has finally decided to go ahead with the new housing project after years of delays.
- Despite significant opposition from local environmental groups, the government announced its intention to go ahead with the construction of the controversial pipeline.

## Pitfalls

- Not "They go ahead the plan." but "They go ahead with the plan." — the preposition 'with' is mandatory when an object follows the verb.

## Usage notes

- usually followed by a noun phrase representing a plan, project, or decision.
- Teaching tip: contrast with the intransitive 'go ahead' (to proceed); 'go ahead with' requires an object and emphasizes the transition from planning to action.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.