go places: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘go places’ mean?

The idiom "go places" means to achieve success or make progress in one's career or life. It implies the notion of moving forward and reaching higher levels of accomplishment or recognition.

Idiom Explorer

The Journey Unveiled

The idiom "go far" is closely related to the expression "go places". While "go places" generally refers to someone's overall progress and success in life, "go far" specifically emphasizes the idea of achieving great things and reaching new heights. It suggests that someone has the potential to go beyond expectations and accomplish significant feats.

When we say that someone can "go far", we are highlighting their talent, ambition, and determination to succeed. It implies that they have the ability to surpass obstacles and make a lasting impact in their chosen field or endeavor. The idiom "go far" is often used as a form of encouragement, recognizing and acknowledging someone's potential to achieve greatness.

With ambition, travel paves the way for success.

Similarly, the idiom "to go" is related to the expression "go places". While "go places" refers more specifically to progress and success, "to go" emphasizes the idea of taking action and pursuing opportunities. It implies that someone is actively seeking out new experiences, challenges, and achievements. When we say that someone has the drive "to go", we are highlighting their willingness to take risks and explore new avenues for growth and success.

The idiom "to go" can be used in various contexts and is often preceded by verbs such as "want", "need", or "desire". For example, someone might say, "I have the desire to go" or "I want to go". Both of these statements convey a sense of motivation and determination to pursue their aspirations and make a mark in their chosen field.

The idioms "go far" and "to go" are closely related to the expression "go places", as they all emphasize progress, achievement, and ambition. While "go far" focuses on achieving great things and surpassing expectations, "to go" emphasizes the action and pursuit of opportunities. These idioms recognize and encourage individuals' potential to succeed and make a lasting impact in their personal or professional lives.

Example usage

Examples of the idiom go places:

  • She is ambitious and determined, she's definitely going places.
  • If you work hard and stay focused, you can really go places in your career.
  • Hannah has always had a strong entrepreneurial spirit, and she has the potential to go places with her business.

More "Success" idioms