move
verb (transitive)
UK/muːv/US/muːv/
To affect with motion; to cause to move.
Example Sentences
He moved the statue to the new location.
They moved the machinery to the storage area.
She moved the chair closer to the table.
They moved the car to the parking spot.
He moved the box upstairs.
The wind moved the leaves across the yard.
She moved the painting to the living room.
They moved the meeting to a different time.
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noun (countable)
UK/muːv/US/muːv/
A sporting event where teams or individuals compete.
Example Sentences
The basketball move was crucial in winning the game.
They prepared for the annual move diligently.
The team performed exceptionally well in the meet.
His move during the race gave him an advantage.
The football move secured their victory.
She watched every move of the players carefully.
Their strategic move led them to the championship.
He made a remarkable move to score the winning goal.
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interjection
UK/muːv/US/muːv/
Used to express surprise, annoyance, or other emotions.
Example Sentences
Move! I didn't expect you here.
Move! You're blocking the way.
Move! That's incredible.
Move! Watch out for that car.
Move! Hurry up.
Move! You're going to spill the coffee.
Move! There's a snake on the path.
Move! I can't see anything here.
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Synonyms
How to Use
To change position or location; a change in position or action.The word 'move' functions primarily as a verb and a noun. As a verb, it means to change position or location, as in 'Please move the chair closer to the table.' It can also imply causing someone or something to change state or condition, such as 'The speech moved the audience.' Additionally, 'move' can be used metaphorically to denote progression in plans or strategies, like 'Let's move forward with the project.' As a noun, 'move' refers to an action or step taken to achieve a goal, for example, 'Her next move in the game was unexpected.' In chess, a 'move' is a specific action taken by a player. When using 'move,' it's essential to consider whether it is being used in a physical, metaphorical, or strategic context to ensure the intended meaning is clear. Proper usage of 'move' enhances communication by accurately conveying changes in position, actions, or strategies across various contexts, from everyday activities to specialized fields like sports and business.
Alternatives
Alternatives to 'move' as a verb include 'shift,' 'relocate,' 'transfer,' 'advance,' and 'progress.' 'Shift' implies a slight change in position, as in 'shift your focus.' 'Relocate' refers to moving to a different place, typically used in the context of moving residences or offices. 'Transfer' can denote moving something from one place to another or changing one's position within an organization. 'Advance' suggests moving forward or making progress, often used in strategic contexts. 'Progress' emphasizes movement towards a goal or improvement, as in 'make progress on the project.' When used as a noun, alternatives include 'action,' 'step,' 'strategy,' 'maneuver,' and 'initiative.' 'Action' refers to something done to achieve an aim, 'step' implies a single stage in a process, 'strategy' denotes a planned approach to achieve a goal, 'maneuver' suggests a skillful or strategic movement, and 'initiative' refers to an initial step taken to begin a process. Choosing the right alternative depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey, allowing for more precise and varied expression in both written and spoken language.
Writing
In writing, 'move' is a versatile word that can be used to describe physical actions, emotional shifts, strategic decisions, and narrative progressions. When describing physical actions, 'move' can illustrate characters' actions and changes in setting, such as 'She decided to move to a new city for a fresh start.' To convey emotional shifts, 'move' can depict the transition of feelings or states of mind, for example, 'The heartfelt letter moved him deeply.' In strategic contexts, especially in genres like business writing or sports, 'move' can represent calculated actions or decisions, such as 'Their next move could determine the outcome of the negotiation.' Additionally, in storytelling, 'move' can signify the progression of the plot, guiding the narrative forward. Utilizing 'move' effectively in your writing enhances clarity and dynamism, enabling you to describe changes and progressions succinctly. It also allows for the expression of subtle shifts in tone or intention, adding depth to your descriptions and narratives. Varying the use of 'move' with its alternatives can prevent repetition and maintain reader engagement, while also providing precise language to convey your intended meaning accurately.
Casual Conversation
In everyday conversations, 'move' is commonly used to describe actions involving changing locations, actions, or plans. For instance, you might say, 'I'm going to move this table over there,' to indicate a physical relocation. It can also be used metaphorically, such as 'Let's move on to the next topic,' suggesting a shift in conversation. When making plans, 'move' can indicate progress or adjustments, like 'We need to move our meeting to next week.' Additionally, 'move' can describe someone's actions or intentions, for example, 'He’s making a move to get a promotion,' highlighting a personal goal or effort. Using 'move' in casual dialogue helps convey changes in plans, locations, or actions clearly and efficiently. It's a versatile term that fits seamlessly into various contexts, whether you're talking about daily activities, adjusting plans, or discussing personal goals and strategies. Incorporating 'move' into your daily speech enhances clarity and expressiveness, allowing you to communicate changes and actions effectively without unnecessary complexity. Whether discussing logistics, personal ambitions, or conversational shifts, 'move' provides a straightforward way to articulate your thoughts and intentions.
Etymology
The word 'move' originates from the Latin 'movere,' which means 'to set in motion, move, stir.' It entered the English language through Old French 'movoir,' maintaining its core meaning related to motion and change. The Proto-Indo-European root '*meu-' signifies 'to push, pull, or move,' reflecting the fundamental concept of movement embedded in the word's history. Over centuries, 'move' has evolved to encompass both physical and abstract senses, adapting to various contexts such as physical relocation, emotional shifts, strategic actions, and narrative progressions. In Middle English, 'move' retained its association with both tangible movement and intangible changes, allowing it to be used flexibly in different linguistic scenarios. The word has also influenced several derivatives and compound words, including 'movement,' 'removal,' 'motor,' and 'promote,' each carrying forward the essence of motion and change. An interesting historical fact is that 'move' has been a central concept in philosophical and artistic discussions, symbolizing change, progress, and the dynamic nature of life. Its enduring relevance highlights the universal importance of movement and change in human experience, making 'move' a fundamental and versatile term in the English language.
