The exact origin is difficult to pinpoint, but its usage in the military dates back to at least the early 20th century. It was likely first used in aviation, as pilots would be told "good to go" when they were cleared for takeoff.
The phrase gradually spread beyond the military and became part of general American English. Today, it is used to indicate that something is ready, prepared, or approved for use in a variety of contexts.
Here are some other possible influences on the phrase's development:
* Sporting events: The phrase could have also been used in sports, such as baseball, where a player is declared "good to go" when they are ready to play.
* The American frontier: The phrase may also have roots in the American frontier, where a traveler would need to be "good to go" in order to survive the harsh conditions.
While the exact origin remains uncertain, it's clear that "good to go" is a versatile phrase with a long history and a strong connection to American culture.