Understanding the Phrasal Verb: Go through with

Phrasal verbs can be tricky for English learners, but they add so much color and precision to the language. One such useful phrasal verb is go through with. Understanding how to go through with various actions or plans is crucial for expressing commitment and perseverance. This expression often implies completing something that might be difficult, unpleasant, or previously doubted. This article will explore the meaning, structure, and usage of go through with, helping you confidently incorporate it into your vocabulary. You'll learn its core definition, see how it's structured in sentences, discover related synonyms, and test your knowledge.

Table of Contents

• What Does Go through with Mean?
• Structure with Go through with
• Related Phrases and Synonyms
• Practice Time!
• Conclusion

What Does Go through with Mean?

The phrasal verb go through with primarily means to complete something that you have planned, promised, or decided to do, especially if it is difficult, challenging, or if you were having second thoughts about it. It emphasizes the act of carrying an action to its conclusion despite potential obstacles or internal hesitation. When someone decides to go through with something, they are showing determination or a sense of obligation to see it to the end. This phrase is key for understanding phrasal verbs that denote completion and resolve.

Using go through with often suggests that there was a point where the person might have chosen not to proceed. For example, if someone says, "I decided to go through with the presentation," it implies they might have considered canceling it but ultimately chose to proceed. This makes it a powerful phrase for conveying resilience and the fulfillment of intentions in your English expressions.

More: Understanding 'Go Through': Meanings and Usage | English Vocabulary

Structure with Go through with

Understanding the grammatical structure of go through with is essential for using it correctly. This phrasal verb is transitive, meaning it always requires an object – the thing that is being completed or proceeded with. The structure generally follows a clear pattern. Below, we explore its common structures related to its nuanced meanings when you want to use go through with.

Meaning 1: Fulfilling a difficult or unpleasant commitment

This usage emphasizes completing a task or commitment that is not easy or enjoyable. It highlights the perseverance involved.

• Structure: Subject + go through with + [the difficult/unpleasant task or commitment (noun phrase)]
  • Example 1: Despite her immense fear of heights, Sarah decided to go through with the bungee jump for charity.
  • Example 2: The company knew the layoffs would be painful, but they had to go through with the restructuring plan to survive.

This particular use of go through with underscores the challenge inherent in the action. It's not just about doing something; it's about doing something hard.

Meaning 2: Proceeding with a plan after hesitation or doubt

This meaning focuses on moving forward with a previously made plan or decision, especially after a period of uncertainty or reconsideration. It implies that there was a possibility of not proceeding.

• Structure: Subject + go through with + [the plan/decision (noun phrase or gerund phrase)]
  • Example 1: After weeks of deliberation and considering all the risks, they finally chose to go through with launching the new product.
  • Example 2: He wasn't sure if it was the right time, but Mark decided to go through with asking for a promotion.

Here, go through with showcases the resolution of doubt, leading to action. It’s a common scenario when people proceed with plans.

Meaning 3: Carrying out a promised action, demonstrating resolve

This emphasizes the act of fulfilling a promise or an announced intention, thereby showing determination and reliability. It often relates to keeping one's word.

• Structure: Subject + go through with + [the promise/action (noun phrase or gerund phrase)]
  • Example 1: The mayor promised to improve city parks, and she is determined to go through with her campaign pledge.
  • Example 2: Even though the weather forecast was bad, the organizers decided to go through with holding the outdoor festival as promised.

Using go through with in this context highlights integrity and the commitment to follow through on what was stated. It’s a valuable phrase for ESL learners to express such commitments.

More: Go Out: English Phrasal Verb Meanings and Usage

Related Phrases and Synonyms

While go through with is quite specific, several other verbs and phrases can convey similar meanings, depending on the nuance you wish to express. Understanding these synonyms can enrich your vocabulary and help you choose the most appropriate term for different situations. Here are some alternatives to help you complete an action or express determination:

These synonyms offer slight variations. For instance, "execute" often implies a formal or complex plan, while "follow through" emphasizes the aspect of not giving up on a promise. Choosing the right word helps in refining your communication, which is a key part of truly learning English verbs and expressions.

More: Understanding 'Go on with': Meaning and Usage in English

Practice Time!

Now it's time to test your understanding of go through with! Read each question carefully and select the best option. This will help solidify your grasp of how to use this phrasal verb correctly.

Question 1: Which sentence correctly uses "go through with"? a) She decided to go through the plan with.

b) Despite the bad weather, they decided to go through with the picnic.

c) He went through with the book very quickly.

d) They will go the project through with effort.

Correct answer: b

Question 2: What does it imply when someone says, "I will go through with the surgery"? a) They are excited about the surgery.

b) They have decided to proceed with the surgery, possibly despite some fear or reluctance.

c) They are looking for alternatives to the surgery.

d) They have already had the surgery.

Correct answer: b

Question 3: Fill in the blank: "Even though she was nervous, Maria decided to ______ her presentation to the board." a) go with through

b) go through

c) go through with

d) go through on

Correct answer: c

Question 4: The phrasal verb "go through with" most nearly means: a) To review something carefully.

b) To experience a difficult situation.

c) To complete a planned or promised action, especially if difficult.

d) To search for something thoroughly.

Correct answer: c

How did you do? Consistent practice is key to mastering phrasal verbs like go through with. Review any questions you got wrong and try to understand why the correct answer is the best fit. Consider making your own sentences to further enhance your learning.

Conclusion

Understanding and correctly using the phrasal verb go through with is a valuable skill for any English language learner. It allows you to express the important concept of completing an intended action, often in the face of difficulty, hesitation, or prior commitment. By grasping its meaning—to proceed with and complete a plan or promise—and its common structures, you can communicate more precisely and naturally. Remember to practice using go through with in different contexts. The more you use it, the more comfortable you'll become, enriching your overall fluency and comprehension of English phrasal verbs and English expressions.