Idiom
We go way back.
This idiom means that two or more people have known each other for a long time.
Meanings
To have known someone for a very long time, often implying a shared history or deep friendship.
Definition
When you say that 'we go way back,' you are indicating that you and another person (or people) have a long-standing relationship. It implies a shared history, often from childhood, school, or an early stage in your lives. This phrase is commonly used to explain the depth or duration of a friendship or acquaintance.
Examples
- You and I have been friends since kindergarten; we go way back.
- When someone asked how they knew each other, Maria simply smiled and said, 'Oh, we go way back.'
- I trust him completely because we go way back to our college days.
- Even though they live in different cities now, their bond is strong because they go way back.
- My boss and I go way back; we started at this company on the same day.
Common mistake
A common mistake is using this idiom for people who have only known each other for a short period, as it specifically implies a long-standing history.
Learn this in a path
More at B2 level
- Bob's your uncle Used to say that something will be easy or will happen exactly as expected after a simple step.
- touch base To touch base means to briefly contact someone to share updates, confirm plans, or check progress.
- ballpark figure A ballpark figure is an approximate number or estimate, not an exact one.
- take the mickey To take the mickey means to mock someone or tease them in an unkind or cheeky way.
- cheap as chips Very cheap; costing very little money.
More idioms
- Bob's your uncle Used to say that something will be easy or will happen exactly as expected after a simple step.
- close but no cigar Used to say someone almost succeeded but did not quite achieve the goal.
- down to the wire Used to say something is decided or finished only at the last possible moment.
- lost the plot To become confused or behave in a way that no longer makes sense.
- ducks in a row To have everything organized and ready for action.