go for

verb

went for; gone for; going for; goes for

transitive

1

: to pass for or serve as

Silvered glass once went for mirrors.

2

: to try to secure or attain (something, such as a goal)

go for the prize

Stop hesitating and just go for it.

3

a

: to accept or agree to

I asked for a loan, but they wouldn't go for it.

b

: to have an interest in or liking for

doesn't go for modern art

She went for him in a big way.

—Chandler Brossard

I could go for [=would like] a cup of coffee.

4

: attack, assail

My dog went for the intruder.

5

: to hold true : be valid

The rules go for you, too.

Examples of go for in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Rent classic bikes at the WaterColor Bike Barn or one of many rental agencies up and down the highway; or go for an easy-breezy electric bike from Pedego Electric Bikes to roll across the sand or the streets with no problem. —Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 14 Jan. 2026

After giving things a go for what seems like the hundredth time, their relationship ends in flames, as always, but Stephen (Jackson White) weaponizes his newfound knowledge of Lucy's secret hookup with Evan (Branden Cook). —Julia Moore, PEOPLE, 14 Jan. 2026

The same goes for Star Wars characters from the Clone Wars and other characters with Disney+ shows like Lando Calrissian and Cassian Andor. —Brady MacDonald, Oc Register, 14 Jan. 2026

That night, Maye went for 25 points and 18 rebounds. —Chad Graff, New York Times, 14 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1586, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for go for

• abhor
• abor
• adore
• afore
• ardour
• ashore
• backdoor
• before
• bookstore
• candour
• centaur
• claymore