Cool MateGo for it vs Worth a shot
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Go for it
Top 2,000 (common)
Worth a shot
InformalTop 2,000 (common)
Most formal: Go for it
| Go for it | Worth a shot | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 //ɡəʊ fɔː ɪt//🇺🇸 //ɡoʊ fɔr ɪt// | 🇬🇧 //wɜːθ ə ʃɒt//🇺🇸 //wɜrθ ə ʃɑt// |
| Meaning | Try to do something, especially something challenging. | Something that is worth trying. |
| Example | If you want to start a business, just go for it! | I know it seems difficult, but it's worth a shot. |
| Register | Neutral | Informal |
| How common | Top 2,000 (common) | Top 2,000 (common) |
| Collocations | go for it, go for a challenge, go for success, go for your dreams, go for a goal | give it a shot, worth a try, take a shot, might as well give it a shot, always worth a shot |
| Common mistakes | Using it in formal writing or speeches., Confusing with similar phrases like 'give it a try'., Not using it in a supportive tone. | Using in formal contexts where a more serious phrase is needed., Confusing with 'worth taking a shot at', which is less common., Not recognizing it means it's okay to try something risky. |
| Usage notes | Use this phrase to encourage someone to take a chance or make an effort. It's casual and positive, suitable for conversation. Not appropriate in very formal situations. | Use in casual conversations to suggest trying something, even if the outcome is uncertain. Avoid in formal writing. |
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Frequently asked questions: Go for it vs Worth a shot
What's the difference between Go for it and Worth a shot?
Go for it: Try to do something, especially something challenging. Worth a shot: Something that is worth trying.
Which is more formal: Go for it and Worth a shot?
Go for it is the most formal of these.
Can you show an example of each?
Go for it: If you want to start a business, just go for it! Worth a shot: I know it seems difficult, but it's worth a shot.
Can I use Go for it and Worth a shot interchangeably?
Not always. Go for it and Worth a shot are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.