THE IDIOM COLLECTION LEARN & PRACTISE
Go the distance
Understand the meaning. See it in context. Make it yours.
01 / UNDERSTAND
Meaning in plain English
To keep going until the end of a competition.
02 / SEE IT IN CONTEXT
The expression in a sentence
- My aim in my first marathon is simply to go the distance.
03 / CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING
Quick idiom quiz
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Can you recall the expression?
Complete the example using the expression from this lesson.
My aim in my first marathon is simply to ________.
Show the answer
Go the distance — To keep going until the end of a competition.
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Make it yours
Write one sentence using “Go the distance” about your own life.
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Does your sentence match this meaning?
To keep going until the end of a competition.
Compare: My aim in my first marathon is simply to go the distance.
Check the spelling and how the expression fits the sentence. Your example can be different.
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GO DEEPER
More ways to understand and use it
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When to use it
Use it when endurance and finishing matter, especially in sport. It has a conversational, encouraging tone.
More examples in context
- The young runner paced herself carefully so she could go the distance.
- Even after falling behind, our team was determined to go the distance.
Usage note
Finishing is the key idea; the expression does not promise victory. The past form is went the distance.
A short conversation
A: Are you trying to win your first race?
B: No, I just want to go the distance.
A: Then start at a pace you can maintain.
One more practice question
Which runner goes the distance?
A. A runner who completes the whole race, even without winning.
B. A runner who stops halfway and withdraws.
Check your answer
A. Going the distance means continuing to the end.
Related lessons
Meaning and usage checked against Cambridge Dictionary. Explanations, examples and conversation are original.