View synonyms for

go-to

[ goh-too ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

a reliable person or thing one turns to as a preferred resource, strategy, option, etc.:
She’s our go-to for computer advice.
This dish is my go-to when I need something quick for a potluck.
a person’s standard way of behaving or responding; reflex:
He’s not trying to impress you—that courtly politeness is his go-to with everybody.

adjective

relied on and turned to as a preferred resource, strategy, option, etc., for a particular purpose:
She’s been the team’s go-to penalty kicker all season.
This is my go-to dictionary.
being a person’s standard way of behaving or responding; usual or habitual:
When I tell them to get off the computer, their go-to excuse is that they need it for homework.

go to

verb

to be awarded to
the Nobel prize last year went to a Scot
go to it
to tackle a task vigorously

interjection

archaic.
an exclamation expressing surprise, encouragement, etc

adjective

1. (of a person) extremely dependable
  the go-to guy in the team
2. (of a place) popularly visited
  go-to destinations

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Word History and Origins

Origin of go-to¹

First recorded in 1980–85

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

But when I have the time, grilling is always my go-to.

From

My go-to order is always General Tso's chicken, pork fried rice, and an egg roll—but I also always try their specialty, whatever it is.

From

The band had honed their live performances by extensive touring, and were also reliable "go-to" support choice for big names - which included Bob Dylan, Queen and U2 again - including an appreciative crowd at Cardiff's National Stadium in 1987.

From

The way Ladd McConkey immediately became the go-to receiver, set rookie franchise records for receptions and receiving yards, and supplanted his more experienced teammates showed how desperate the Chargers were for more play-making.

From

“My go-to argument is that they're good. And my second go-to argument is that there are many socially acceptable desserts that are technically cookie salads that most people have already had, like banana pudding, tiramisu and Eton mess. It’s just the name that people are getting hung up on.”

From

Related Words

Gotland go to any length

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