Word forms: plural, 3rd person singular presenttense moves, present participle moving, past tense, past participle moved
1. verb
When you move something or when it moves, its position changes and it does not remain still.
She moved the sheaf of papers into position. [VERB noun preposition/adverb]
You can move the camera both vertically and horizontally. [VERB noun preposition/adverb]
A traffic warden asked him to move his car. [VERB noun]
I could see the branches of the trees moving back and forth. [VERB preposition/adverb]
The train began to move. [VERB]
Synonyms: transfer, change, carry, transport More Synonyms of move
2. verb
When you move, you change your position or go to a different place.
She waited for him to get up, but he didn't move. [VERB]
There was so much furniture you could hardly move without bumping into something. [VERB]
He moved around the room, putting his possessions together. [VERB preposition/adverb]
She moved away from the window. [VERB preposition/adverb]
Synonyms: go, walk, march, advance More Synonyms of move
Move is also a noun.
The doctor made a move towards the door.
Daniel's eyes followed her every move.
3. verb
If you move, you act or you begin to do something.
Industrialists must move fast to take advantage of these new opportunities. [VERB]
Synonyms: take action, act, do something, take steps More Synonyms of move
4. countable noun [usually singular]
A move is an action that you take in order to achieve something.
The one point cut in interest rates was a wise move.
It may also be a good move to suggest she talks things over.
The thirty-five member nations agreed to the move.
Her latest disappearing act may be no more than a stunt, or a smart career move.
Synonyms: ploy, action, measure, step More Synonyms of move
5. verb
If a person or company moves, they leave the building where they have been living or working, and they go to live or work in a different place, taking their possessions with them.
My family home is in Yorkshire and they don't want to move. [VERB]
She had often considered moving to London. [VERB + to]
They move house fairly frequently. [VERB noun]
The London Evening Standard moved offices a few years ago. [VERB noun]
Synonyms: relocate, leave, remove, quit More Synonyms of move
Move is also a noun.
Modigliani announced his move to Montparnasse in 1909.
6. verb
If people in authority move someone, they make that person go from one place or job to another one.
His superiors moved him to another parish. [VERB noun preposition/adverb]
Ms Clark is still in position and there are no plans to move her. [VERB noun]
The family had to be moved because of an attack on their home. [VERB noun]
7. verb
If you movefrom one job or interest to another, you change to it.
He moved from being an extramural tutor to being a lecturer in social history. [VERB + from/to]
In the early days Christina moved jobs to get experience. [VERB noun]
Synonyms: change, shift, convert, transform More Synonyms of move
Move is also a noun.
His move to the chairmanship means he will take a less active role in day-to-daymanagement.
8. verb
If you moveto a new topic in a conversation, you start talking about something different.
Let's move to another subject, Dan. [VERB + from/to]
9. verb
If you move an event or the date of an event, you change the time at which it happens.
The club has moved its meeting to Saturday, January 22nd. [VERB noun + to]
The band have moved forward their Leeds date to October 27. [VERB noun with adverb]
[Also VERB noun]
10. verb
If you move towards a particular state, activity, or opinion, you start to be in that state, do that activity, or have that opinion.
There is no doubt that the party has moved to the right. [VERB preposition/adverb]
It is already possible to start moving toward the elimination of nuclear weapons. [VERB preposition/adverb]
Since the Convention was drawn up, international opinion has begun to move againstit. [VERB preposition/adverb]
Move is also a noun.
His move to the left was not a sudden leap but a natural working out of ideas.
11. verb [usually cont]
If a situation or process is moving, it is developing or progressing, rather than staying still.
Events are moving fast. [VERB]
Someone has got to get things moving. [get n V-ing]
Synonyms: progress, develop, advance, make progress More Synonyms of move
12. verb [usually passive, with neg]
If you say that you will not be moved, you mean that you have come to a decision and nothing will change your mind.
Everyone thought I was mad to go back, but I wouldn't be moved. [beVERB-ed]
13. verb
If something moves you to do something, it influences you and causes you to do it.
It was punk that first moved him to join a band seriously. [VERB noun to-infinitive]
The president was moved to come up with these suggestions after the hearings. [VERB noun to-infinitive]
Synonyms: drive, lead, cause, influence More Synonyms of move
14. verb
If something moves you, it has an effect on your emotions and causes you to feel sadness or sympathy for another person.
These stories surprised and moved me. [VERB noun]
His prayer moved me to tears. [VERB noun + to]
Synonyms: touch, affect, excite, impress More Synonyms of move
movedadjective [verb-link ADJECTIVE]
Those who listened to him were deeply moved.
15. verb
If you say that someone moves in a particular society, circle, or world, you mean that they know people in a particular social class or group and spend most of their time with them.
She moves in high-society circles in London. [VERB + in]
Synonyms: circulate, mix, associate, go round More Synonyms of move
16. verb
At a meeting, if you move a motion, you formally suggest it so that everyone present can vote on it.
Labour quickly moved a closure motion to end the debate. [VERB noun]
I move that the case be dismissed. [VERB that]
Synonyms: propose, suggest, urge, recommend More Synonyms of move
17. countable noun
A move is an act of putting a chess piece or other counter in a different position on a board when it is your turn to do so in a game.
With no idea of what to do for my next move, my hand hovered over the board.
18.
See one/a false move
19.
See get a move on
20.
See to make a move
21.
See to make a move
22.
See on the move
23. to move the goalposts
24. to move heaven and earth
25. to move a muscle
Phrasal verbs:
See move about
See move along
See move around
See move away
See move down
See move in
See move into
See move off
See move on
See move out
See move over
See move up
More Synonyms of move
move in British English
(muːv)
verb
1.
to go or take from one place to another; change in location or position
2. (usually intr)
to change (one's dwelling, place of business, etc)
3.
to be or cause to be in motion; stir
4. (intransitive)
(of machines, etc) to work or operate
5. (transitive)
to cause (to do something); prompt
6. (intransitive)
to begin to act
move soon or we'll lose the order
7. (intransitive)
to associate oneself with a specified social circle
to move in exalted spheres
8. (intransitive)
to make progress
9. (transitive)
to arouse affection, pity, or compassion in; touch
10.
(in board games) to change the position of (a piece) or (of a piece) to change position
11. (intransitive)
(of merchandise) to be disposed of by being bought
12. (whentr, often takes a clause as object; when intr, often foll by for)
to suggest (a proposal) formally, as in debating or parliamentary procedure
13. (intr; usually foll by on or along)
to go away or to another place; leave
14.
to cause (the bowels) to evacuate or (of the bowels) to be evacuated
15. (intransitive) informal
to be exciting or active
the party started moving at twelve
16. move heaven and earth
noun
17.
the act of moving; movement
18.
one of a sequence of actions, usually part of a plan; manoeuvre
19.
the act of moving one's residence, place of business, etc
20. (in board games)
a.
a player's turn to move his or her piece or take other permitted action
b.
a permitted manoeuvre of a piece
21. get a move on
22. make a move
23. make one's move
24. on the move
Word origin
C13: from Anglo-French mover, from Latin movēre
move in American English
(muv)
verb transitiveWord forms: moved or ˈmoving
1.
to change the place or position of; push, carry, or pull from one place or position to another
2.
to set or keep in motion; actuate, impel, turn, stir, etc.
3.
to cause or persuade (to act, do, say, speak, etc.); prompt
4.
to arouse or stir the emotions, passions, or sympathies of
5.
to propose or suggest; esp., to propose formally, as in a meeting
6.
to cause (the bowels) to evacuate
7. Business
to dispose of (goods) by selling
verb intransitive
8.
to change place or position; go (to some place)
9.
to change one's place of residence, business, etc.
10.
to live or be active in a specified milieu or setting
to move in artistic circles
11.
to make progress; advance
12.
to take action; begin to act
13.
a.
to be, or be set, in motion
b.
to operate in a certain fixed motion; turn, revolve, etc.
said of machines
14.
to make a formal appeal or application (for)
move for a new trial
15.
to evacuate
said of the bowels
16. Informal
to start leaving; depart
often with on
time to be moving on
17. Chess and Checkers Etc
a.
to change the position of a piece
b.
to be put in another position
said of a piece
18. Business
to be disposed of by sale
said of goods
noun
19.
the act of moving; a movement
20.
one of a series of actions toward some goal
21.
a change of residence, business location, etc.
22. Chess and Checkers Etc
the act of moving or a player's turn to move
23. Slang
an action, device, trick, etc. intended to deceive; esp., in sports, a deceptive maneuver or movement
SIMILAR WORDS: afˈfect
Idioms:
get a move on
move in on
move over
move up
on the move
put the moves (or a move) on
Word origin
ME moven < Anglo-Fr mover < OFr movoir < L movere < IE base *mew-, to push away > Sans mīvati, (he) shoves
move in Retail
(muv)
Word forms: (present) moves, (past) moved, (perfect) moved, (progressive) moving
verb
(Retail: Merchandising)
To move merchandise is to sell it.
In a recession, large department stores will have a difficult time moving products.
In the food court, managers aim to move product at its freshest rather than having any left at the end of the day.
To move merchandise is to sell it.
More idioms containing
move
move heaven and earth
move the goalposts
move in for the kill
move like a greased pig
move mountains
get a move on
Examples of 'move' in a sentence
move
What teams will make a move as they chase glory or try to move away from danger?
The Sun (2016)
The move could cut the amount of cardboard required to protect home deliveries.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
One false move and you are out.
The Sun (2016)
He may well move on in a year or two.
The Sun (2016)
They are moving to places where there are very few ethnic minorities.
The Sun (2016)
The move downgrades the role of the conductor or guard who previously had responsibility for the train doors.
Times, Sunday Times (2017)
First, investors have moved back into equities from their previously cautious positions in less risky bonds.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
Council workers carrying chainsaws and backed by 12 cops moved in at 5am after neighbours were woken and asked to move their cars.
The Sun (2016)
US officials say that, given the risks, the most aggressive counter moves remain unlikely.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
The risks of a false move are obvious.
Times, Sunday Times (2006)
They must not be moved one inch.
Hyland, Paul Indian Balm - Travels in the Southern Subcontinent (1994)
We will work hard to get something moving for him.
Times, Sunday Times (2013)
Yet there was another career move waiting in the wings.
Times, Sunday Times (2015)
It is doing so under the auspices of its move to cut unnecessary regulation.
Times, Sunday Times (2006)
But the cameras have already moved on.
Times, Sunday Times (2007)
Think of it as the opening move in a chess game.
Times, Sunday Times (2012)
These bees carry a gene that causes them to move dead brood out from inside the hive.
Times, Sunday Times (2010)
And he may move away from pop tunes.
The Sun (2011)
Standing she moved down the train and took another seat.
Christopher Ross TUNNEL VISIONS: Journeys of an Underground Philosopher (2001)
Traffic moves at five miles an hour.
Times, Sunday Times (2007)
The game plan will change as we move along.
The Sun (2014)
We should move away from thinking of marriage as a career move in itself.
Times, Sunday Times (2011)
It is not known what made the car move.
The Sun (2010)
The units fit at the back of the counter moving up and down behind drawers and shelves.
Times, Sunday Times (2012)
These two differ in the way they balance "static" and "moving" parts.
Peter F. Drucker MANAGEMENT: task, responsibilities, practices (1974)
The war caused many people to move from place to place.
Garraty, John Arthur The American Nation: A History of the United States to 1877 (1995)
This was a powerful and moving act of selflessness.
Times, Sunday Times (2011)
Tell your parents you are signing up for a new college degree and intend to move back in.
Times, Sunday Times (2007)
United are expected to make fresh moves for a midfielder and left back in January.
Times, Sunday Times (2013)
In other languages
move
British English: move /muːv/ NOUN
A move is an action that you take.
It may be a good move to talk things over with a friend.
American English: move
Arabic: حَرَكَةٌ
Brazilian Portuguese: ação
Chinese: 行动
Croatian: potez
Czech: krok postupu
Danish: bevægelse
Dutch: actie verplaatsing
European Spanish: mudanza
Finnish: siirto liike
French: mouvement
German: Umzug
Greek: κίνηση
Italian: mossa
Japanese: 移動
Korean: 행동
Norwegian: flytting
Polish: ruch przemieszczanie
European Portuguese: movimento
Romanian: mutare
Russian: движение
Latin American Spanish: ademán relacionado a una acción o paso a realizar
Swedish: flytt
Thai: การดำเนินการ
Turkish: hareket
Ukrainian: рух
Vietnamese: sự di chuyển
British English: move /muːv/ VERB
reposition When you move something, you put it in a different place.
The man asked her to move her car.
American English: move
Arabic: يُحَرِّكُ
Brazilian Portuguese: deslocar
Chinese: 移动
Croatian: pomaknuti
Czech: přesunout
Danish: flytte
Dutch: bewegen
European Spanish: mover
Finnish: siirtää
French: déplacer
German: bewegen
Greek: κινώ
Italian: muovere
Japanese: 動かす
Korean: (...을) 움직이다
Norwegian: flytte
Polish: ruszyć
European Portuguese: deslocar
Romanian: a muta
Russian: двигать
Latin American Spanish: mover
Swedish: flytta byta bostad
Thai: ย้าย
Turkish: kımıldatmak
Ukrainian: пересувати
Vietnamese: chuyển chỗ
British English: move /muːv/ VERB
relocate If you move, you go to live in a different place.
She's moving to the capital next month.
American English: move
Arabic: يَتَحَرَّكُ
Brazilian Portuguese: mudar-se
Chinese: 移动
Croatian: seliti se
Czech: stěhovat se
Danish: flytte
Dutch: verhuizen
European Spanish: mudarse
Finnish: siirtyä
French: bouger
German: bewegen (sich)
Greek: κινούμαι
Italian: traslocare
Japanese: 動く
Korean: 이사하다
Norwegian: flytte
Polish: ruszyć się
European Portuguese: mexer-se
Romanian: a se muta
Russian: двигаться
Latin American Spanish: mudarse
Swedish: röra (sig)
Thai: ย้ายที่อยู่
Turkish: kımıldanmak
Ukrainian: переїжджати
Vietnamese: di chuyển
Chinese translation of 'move'
move
(muːv)
vi
(= change position)[vehicle]行进(進) (xíngjìn)
⇒ The train began to move.火车开始开动了。 (Huǒchē kāishǐ kāidòng le.)
[person, object]动(動) (dòng)
(= relocate) 搬家 (bānjiā)
⇒ She had often considered moving to London.她常考虑搬到伦敦去住。 (Tā cháng kǎolǜ bān dào Lúndūn qù zhù.)
(from job) (also move on) 换(換) (huàn)
⇒ Christina moved to another job to get more experience.克里斯蒂娜换了另一份工作以获得更多的经验。 (Kèlǐsīdìnà huànle lìng yī fèn gōngzuò yǐ huòdé gèng duō de jīngyàn.)
(from activity) 改换(換) (gǎihuàn)
(= shift)
to move to(wards)倾(傾)向于(於) (qīngxiàng yú)
⇒ The Labour Party has moved to the right.工党已倾向于右派立场。 (Gōngdǎng yǐ qīngxiàng yú yòupài lìchǎng.)
(= develop)[situation, events]进(進)展 (jìnzhǎn)
⇒ Events are moving fast.事情进展迅速。 (Shìqing jìnzhǎn xùnsù.)
vt
(= change position of)[furniture, car]挪动(動) (nuódòng)
⇒ Workmen were moving a heavy wardrobe down the stairs.工人们正把一个很重的衣橱挪到楼下去。 (Gōngrénmen zhèng bǎ yī gè hěn zhòng de yīchú nuó dào lóuxià qù.)
(= transfer)[worker]调(調)动(動) (diàodòng)
⇒ His superiors moved him to another department.他的上司把他调到另一个部门。 (Tā de shàngsi bǎ tā diào dào lìng yī gè bùmén.)
(= change)
to move sth (to)[event, date]改(到) (gǎi (dào))
⇒ The club has moved its meeting to January 22nd.俱乐部已把聚会的日期改到1月22日。 (Jùlèbù yǐ bǎ jùhuì de rìqī gǎi dào yī yuè èrshìèr rì.)
(= affect emotionally)[person]感动(動) (gǎndòng)
⇒ The whole incident had moved her profoundly.整个事件深深地感动了她。 (Zhěnggè shìjiàn shēnshēn de gǎndòngle tā.)
to move sb to do sth (= motivate) 促使某人做某事 (cùshǐ mǒurén zuò mǒushì)
⇒ What has moved the President to take this step?是什么促使总统采取这一举措？ (Shì shénme cùshǐ zǒngtǒng cǎiqǔ zhè yī jǔcuò?)
to move that ... (Pol) 提议(議) ... (tíyì ... )
⇒ She moved that the meeting be adjourned.她提议休会。 (Tā tíyì xiūhuì.)
n(c)
(= movement) 动(動)作 (dòngzuò)
⇒ Daniel's eyes followed her every move.丹尼尔的眼光紧随她的每一个动作。 (Dānní'ěr de yǎnguāng jǐnsuí tā de měi yī gè dòngzuò.)
(= act) 行动(動) (xíngdòng)
⇒ A government move to drop the plan could affect share prices.政府终止这项计划的行动将会影响到股票价格。 (Zhèngfǔ zhōngzhǐ zhè xiàng jìhuà de xíngdòng jiāng huì yǐngxiǎng dào gǔpiào jiàgé.)
(= change)[of house]搬家 (bānjiā) (次, cì)
⇒ The move to Prague was a daunting prospect.搬家至布拉格，其前景颇令人沮丧。 (Bānjiā zhì Bùlāgé, qí qiánjǐng pō lìng rén jǔsàng.)
(= change)[of job, belief]变(變)动(動) (biàndòng)
⇒ His move to the personnel department was no surprise.他被调到人事部门的变动并不令人吃惊。 (Tā bèi diào dào rénshìbùmén de biàndòng bìng bù lìng rén chījīng.)
(in game, = go, turn) 一步 (yī bù)
(= change of position) 一步棋 (yī bù qí)
to move house/jobs/offices搬家/换(換)工作/更换(換)办(辦)公地点(點) (bānjiā/huàn gōngzuò/gēnghuàn bàngōng dìdiǎn)
a good/bad move好/糟糕的一步 (hǎo/zāogāo de yī bù)
one false move不明智的行为(為) (bù míngzhì de xíngwéi)
to get a move on (inf) 快点(點) (kuàidiǎn)
to be on the move迁(遷)移中 (qiānyí zhōng)
to make a move (= take action) 采(採)取行动(動) (cǎiqǔ xíngdòng) (= leave) 离(離)去 (líqù)
All related terms of 'move'
move in
( into house ) 搬入 bānrù ⇒ The house wasn't ready when she moved in. → 她搬进去的时候房子还没装修好。 Tā bān jìnqù de shíhou fángzi hái méi zhuāngxiū hǎo.
move on
( leave ) 启(啟)程前往 qǐchéng qiánwǎng ⇒ After three weeks in Hong Kong, we moved on to Japan. → 在香港逗留了3个星期后，我们启程前往日本。 Zài Xiānggǎng dòuliú le sān gè xīngqī hòu, wǒmen qǐchéng qiánwǎng Rìběn.
move up
( on sofa etc ) 靠拢(攏) kàolǒng ⇒ Move up, John, and make room for the lady. → 靠拢点，约翰，给那位女士挪个地方。 Kàolǒngdiǎn, Yuēhàn, gěi nà wèi nǚshì nuó gè dìfang.
move off
( car ) 开(開)走 kāizǒu ⇒ Gil waved his hand and the car moved off. → 吉尔挥了挥手，车开走了。 Jí'ěr huī le huī shǒu, chē kāizǒu le.
move out
( of house ) 搬出去 bān chūqù ⇒ The guy that lived there moved out a month ago. → 以前住在那儿的家伙一个月前搬出去了。 Yǐqián zhù zài nàr de jiāhuo yī gè yuè qián bān chūqù le.
move away
( from town, area ) 离(離)开(開) líkāi ⇒ He moved away and lost contact with the family. → 他离开家，和家人失去了联系。 Tā líkāi jiā, hé jiārén shīqùle liánxì.
move back
( return : to town, area ) 回来(來) huílái
move down
下降 xiàjiàng
move into
( house, area ) 搬进(進) bānjìn
move over
( to make room ) 让(讓)开(開)些 ràngkāi xiē ⇒ Move over and let me drive. → 让开些，让我来开车。 Ràngkāi xiē, ràng wǒ lái kāichē.
move about
( change position ) 走来(來)走去 zǒulái zǒuqù
move along
( develop ) 发(發)展 fāzhǎn ⇒ Research tends to move along at a slow but orderly pace. → 研究趋于缓慢而有序地发展。 Yánjiū qūyú huǎnmàn ér yǒuxù de fāzhǎn.
和 ... 同居 hé ... tóngjū ⇒ Her husband had moved in with a younger woman. → 她的丈夫和一个比她年轻的女人同居了。 Tā de zhàngfu hé yī gè bǐ tā niánqīng de nǚrén tóngjū le.
one false move
不明智的行为(為) bù míngzhì de xíngwéi
a good/bad move
好/糟糕的一步 hǎo/zāogāo de yī bù
to make a move
( take action ) 采(採)取行动(動) cǎiqǔ xíngdòng
to move that ...
( Pol ) 提议(議) ... tíyì ... ⇒ She moved that the meeting be adjourned. → 她提议休会。 Tā tíyì xiūhuì.
to be on the move
迁(遷)移中 qiānyí zhōng
to get a move on
( inf ) 快点(點) kuàidiǎn
he didn't move a muscle
他一动(動)不动(動) tā yī dòng bù dòng
to move sb to do sth
( motivate ) 促使某人做某事 cùshǐ mǒurén zuò mǒushì ⇒ What has moved the President to take this step? → 是什么促使总统采取这一举措？ Shì shénme cùshǐ zǒngtǒng cǎiqǔ zhè yī jǔcuò?
倾(傾)向于(於) qīngxiàng yú ⇒ The Labour Party has moved to the right. → 工党已倾向于右派立场。 Gōngdǎng yǐ qīngxiàng yú yòupài lìchǎng.
to move sth (to)
( event, date ) 改(到) gǎi (dào) ⇒ The club has moved its meeting to January 22nd. → 俱乐部已把聚会的日期改到1月22日。 Jùlèbù yǐ bǎ jùhuì de rìqī gǎi dào yī yuè èrshìèr rì.
1 (verb)
Definition
to change the time when something is scheduled to happen
She moved the sheaf of papers into position.
Synonyms
transfer
The person can be transferred from wheelchair to seat with relative ease.
change
carry
He carried the plate through to the dining room.
transport
There's no petrol so it's difficult to transport goods.
switch
I'm switching to a new gas supplier.
shift
We shifted the vans and used the area for skateboarding.
transpose
Genetic engineers transpose bits of material from one organism to another.
2 (verb)
Definition
to go or take from one place to another
She waited for him to get up, but he didn't move.
Synonyms
go
It took us an hour to go three miles.
walk
They walked in silence for a while.
march
advance
progress
shift
The entire pile shifted and slid, thumping onto the floor.
proceed
She proceeded along the hallway.
stir
The two women lay on their backs, not stirring.
budge
I pulled and pulled but I couldn't budge it.
make a move
change position
3 (verb)
Definition
to act or begin to act
Industrialists must move fast to take advantage of this opportunity.
Synonyms
take action
act
I have no reason to doubt that the bank acted properly.
do something
take steps
They agreed to take steps to avoid confrontation.
take the initiative
make a move
A week before the deal, they made a move to pull out.
get moving (informal)
take measures
4 (verb)
Definition
to start to live or work in a different place
My home is in Yorkshire and I don't want to move.
Synonyms
relocate
Should they be forced to relocate at the end of the contract?
leave
Just pack your bags and leave.
She was not allowed to leave the country.
remove
They removed to America.
quit
Police were called when he refused to quit the building.
go away
I wish he'd just go away and leave me alone.
migrate
The farmers have to migrate if they want to survive.
emigrate
He emigrated to Belgium.
move house
flit (Scottish, NorthernEngland, dialect)
decamp
up sticks (British, informal)
pack your bags (informal)
change residence
5 (verb)
Definition
to change, progress, or develop in a specified way
She moved from being a researcher to being a lecturer.
Synonyms
change
We are trying to detect and understand how the climate changes.
shift
The wind shifted and the helicopter lurched.
convert
a handy table which converts into an ironing board
transform
the speed at which your body transforms food into energy
alter
They have never altered their programmes.
diversify
Manufacturers are encouraged to diversify.
6 (verb)
Definition
to change, progress, or develop in a specified way
Events are moving fast.
Synonyms
progress
He came round to see how our work was progressing.
develop
Children develop at different rates.
advance
The country has advanced from a rural society to an industrial power.
make progress
make headway
7 (verb)
He made it clear he would not move on this issue.
Synonyms
change your mind
change
shift
reconsider
We want you to reconsider your decision to resign.
We urge you to reconsider.
budge
Both sides say they will not budge.
climb down
do a U-turn
back-pedal
He appeared to back-pedal on that statement.
do an about-turn (British, informal)
change your tune
He changed his tune, saying that the increase was experimental.
do an aboutface
8 (verb)
Definition
to cause or prompt to do something
The hearings moved me to come up with these suggestions.
Synonyms
drive
Curiosity drove me to probe into what they worked on together.
lead
It was not as straightforward as we were led to believe.
cause
I don't want to cause any trouble.
influence
The conference influenced us to launch the campaign.
persuade
the event which persuaded the United States to enter the war
push
Her parents kept her in school and pushed her to study.
shift
inspire
What inspired you to change your name?
prompt
The recession has prompted consumers to cut back on buying cars.
stimulate
I was stimulated to examine my deepest thoughts.
motivate
How do you motivate people to work hard and efficiently?
induce
I would do anything to induce them to stay.
shove
He shoved her out of the way.
activate
video cameras that can be activated by computer
propel
He is propelled by the need to make his family proud.
rouse
He did more to rouse the crowd than anybody else.
prod
a tactic to prod the government into spending more on education
incite
He incited his fellow citizens to take revenge.
impel
set going
Opposites
stop
,
prevent
,
discourage
,
deter
,
dissuade
9 (verb)
Definition
to arouse affection, pity, or compassion in
These stories surprised and moved me.
Synonyms
touch
It has touched me deeply to see how these people live.
affect
He loved his sister, and her loss clearly still affects him.
excite
I only take on work that excites me.
impress
What impressed him most was their speed.
stir
I was intrigued by him, stirred by his intellect.
agitate
The thought of them inheriting all these things agitated her.
disquiet
She was obviously disquieted by the experience.
make an impression on
tug at your heartstrings often facetious)
10 (verb)
Definition
to spend most of one's time with a specified social group
She moves in high society circles in London.
Synonyms
circulate
Let me get you something to drink, then I must circulate.
mix
He mixes with people younger than himself.
associate
They found out they'd been associating with a criminal.
go round
hang out (informal)
socialize
They no longer socialized as they used to.
keep company
fraternize
Executives fraternized with the personnel of other banks.
11 (verb)
Definition
to suggest a proposal formally, as in a debate
I moved that the case be dismissed.
Synonyms
propose
We are about to propose some changes to the system.
suggest
I suggest you ask him some specific questions about his past.
urge
recommend
I recommend that you consult your doctor.
request
advocate
They advocate fewer government controls on business.
submit
I submit that you knew exactly what you were doing.
put forward
12 (verb)
Definition
to cause or prompt to do something
Synonyms
impel
I felt impelled to go on speaking.
urge
motivate
His hard work was motivated by a need to achieve.
give rise to
instigate
The violence was instigated by ex-members of the secret police.
actuate
They were actuated by desire.
1 (noun)
Definition
the act of moving
My eyes followed their every move.
Synonyms
action
He was the sort of person who didn't like his actions questioned.
act
My insurance covers acts of sabotage.
step
He greeted the agreement as the first step towards peace.
movement
I could watch your every movement.
shift
motion
the laws governing light, sound and motion
manoeuvre
The camp was used for military manoeuvres.
deed
His heroic deeds were celebrated in every corner of the country.
2 (noun)
Definition
one of a sequence of actions, usually part of a plan
The cut in interest rates was a wise move.
Synonyms
ploy
a cynical marketing ploy
action
measure
He said stern measures would be taken against the rioters.
step
trick
That was a really mean trick.
initiative
There's talk of a new peace initiative.
stroke
At the time, his appointment seemed a stroke of genius.
tactic
His tactic to press on paid off.
manoeuvre
manoeuvres to block the electoral process
deed
dodge
It was probably just a dodge to stop you going away.
tack
ruse
This was a ruse to divide them.
gambit
They said the plan was no more than a clever political gambit.
stratagem
a competitive stratagem to secure customer loyalty
3 (noun)
Definition
the act of moving one's home or place of business
He announced his move to Montparnasse in 1909.
Synonyms
transfer
Arrange for the transfer of medical records to your new doctor.
posting
shift
There has been a shift of the elderly to this state.
removal
Home removals are best done in cool weather.
migration
the mass migration of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries
relocation
flit (Scottish, NorthernEngland, dialect)
flitting (Scottish, NorthernEngland, dialect)
change of address
4 (noun)
Definition
(in a boardgame) a manoeuvre of a piece
It's your move, chess fans tell Sports Minister.
Synonyms
turn
Let each child have a turn at fishing.
go
Whose go is it next?
play
chance
All eligible people will get a chance to vote.
shot (informal)
He will be given a shot at the world title.
opportunity
I was given an opportunity to bathe and shower.
I had the opportunity to go abroad and study.
idioms
See get a move on
See make a move
phrase
See on the move
Additional synonyms
in the sense of act
Definition
to do something
I have no reason to doubt that the bank acted properly.
Synonyms
do something,
perform,
move,
function,
go about,
conduct yourself,
undertake something
in the sense of act
Definition
something done
My insurance covers acts of sabotage.
Synonyms
deed,
action,
step,
performance,
operation,
doing,
move,
blow,
achievement,
stroke,
undertaking,
exploit,
execution,
feat,
accomplishment,
exertion
in the sense of activate
Definition
to make something active
video cameras that can be activated by computer
Synonyms
start,
move,
trigger (off),
stimulate,
turn on,
set off,
initiate,
switch on,
propel,
rouse,
prod,
get going,
mobilize,
kick-start (informal),
set in motion,
impel,
galvanize,
set going,
actuate,
prompt,
stir,
motivate,
arouse,
animate,
energize
Synonyms of 'move'
move
Explore 'move' in the dictionary
Additional synonyms
in the sense of actuate
Definition
to motivate someone
They were actuated by desire.
Synonyms
motivate,
move,
drive,
influence,
excite,
urge,
inspire,
prompt,
stir,
spur,
induce,
arouse,
rouse,
get going,
quicken,
incite,
instigate,
impel
in the sense of advance
The country has advanced from a rural society to an industrial power.
Synonyms
improve,
rise,
grow,
develop,
reform,
pick up,
progress,
thrive,
upgrade,
multiply,
prosper,
make strides
in the sense of advocate
Definition
to recommend a course of action publicly
They advocate fewer government controls on business.
Synonyms
recommend,
support,
champion,
encourage,
propose,
favour,
defend,
promote,
urge,
advise,
justify,
endorse,
campaign for,
prescribe,
speak for,
uphold,
press for,
argue for,
commend,
plead for,
espouse,
countenance,
hold a brief for (informal)
in the sense of affect
Definition
to move someone emotionally
He loved his sister, and her loss clearly still affects him.
Synonyms
emotionally move,
touch,
upset,
overcome,
stir,
disturb,
perturb,
impress on,
tug at your heartstrings (facetious)
in the sense of agitate
Definition
to excite, disturb, or trouble
The thought of them inheriting all these things agitated her.
Synonyms
upset,
worry,
trouble,
disturb,
excite,
alarm,
stimulate,
distract,
rouse,
ruffle,
inflame,
incite,
unnerve,
disconcert,
disquiet,
fluster,
perturb,
faze,
work someone up,
give someone grief (British, South Africa),
arouse,
ferment
in the sense of alter
Definition
to make or become different
They have never altered their programmes.
Synonyms
modify,
change,
reform,
shift,
vary,
transform,
adjust,
adapt,
revise,
amend,
diversify,
remodel,
tweak (informal),
recast,
reshape,
metamorphose,
transmute
in the sense of associate
Definition
to mix socially
They found out they'd been associating with a criminal.
Synonyms
socialize,
mix,
hang (informal, US),
accompany,
hang out (informal),
run around (informal),
mingle,
be friends,
befriend,
consort,
hang about,
hobnob,
fraternize
in the sense of back-pedal
Definition
to retract or modify a previous opinion or statement
He appeared to back-pedal on that statement.
Synonyms
backtrack,
go back,
reverse,
reconsider,
climb down,
have second thoughts,
change your mind,
flip-flop (informal, US),
do a U-turn
in the sense of budge
Definition
to move slightly
I pulled and pulled but I couldn't budge it.
Synonyms
dislodge,
move,
push,
roll,
remove,
transfer,
shift,
slide,
stir,
propel
in the sense of budge
Definition
to change or cause to change opinions
Both sides say they will not budge.
Synonyms
yield,
change,
compromise,
bend,
concede,
surrender,
comply,
give way,
capitulate,
acquiesce,
change your mind
Additional synonyms
in the sense of carry
Definition
to take from one place to another
He carried the plate through to the dining room.
Synonyms
convey,
take,
move,
bring,
bear,
lift,
transfer,
conduct,
transport,
haul,
transmit,
fetch,
relay,
cart,
tote (informal),
hump (British, slang),
lug
in the sense of cause
Definition
to be the cause of
I don't want to cause any trouble.
Synonyms
produce,
begin,
create,
effect,
lead to,
occasion (formal),
result in,
generate,
provoke,
compel,
motivate,
induce,
bring about,
give rise to,
precipitate,
incite,
engender
in the sense of chance
Definition
an opportunity or occasion to do something
All eligible people will get a chance to vote.
Synonyms
opportunity,
opening,
occasion,
time,
scope,
window
in the sense of change your tune
Definition
to alter one's attitude or tone of speech
He changed his tune, saying that the increase was experimental.
Synonyms
change your attitude,
reconsider,
think again,
change your mind,
have a change of heart,
take a different tack,
do an about-face
in the sense of convert
Definition
to change or adapt
a handy table which converts into an ironing board
Synonyms
change,
turn,
transform,
alter,
metamorphose,
transpose,
transmute,
transmogrify (humorous)
in the sense of deed
Definition
a notable achievement
His heroic deeds were celebrated in every corner of the country.
Synonyms
action,
act,
performance,
achievement,
exploit,
feat
in the sense of develop
Definition
to grow or bring to a later, more elaborate, or more advanced stage
Children develop at different rates.
Synonyms
grow,
advance,
progress,
spread,
expand,
mature,
evolve,
thrive,
flourish,
bloom,
blossom,
burgeon,
ripen
in the sense of disquiet
Definition
to make (someone) anxious
She was obviously disquieted by the experience.
Synonyms
make uneasy,
concern,
worry,
trouble,
upset,
bother,
disturb,
distress,
annoy,
plague,
unsettle,
harass,
hassle (informal),
agitate,
vex,
perturb,
discompose,
incommode
in the sense of diversify
Definition
to create different forms of
Manufacturers are encouraged to diversify.
Synonyms
vary,
change,
expand,
transform,
alter,
spread out,
branch out
in the sense of dodge
Definition
a cunning and deceitful trick
It was probably just a dodge to stop you going away.
Synonyms
trick,
scheme,
ploy,
trap,
device,
fraud,
con (slang),
manoeuvre,
deception,
scam (slang),
gimmick,
hoax,
wheeze (British, slang),
deceit,
ruse,
artifice,
subterfuge,
canard,
feint,
stratagem,
contrivance,
machination,
fastie (Australian, slang)
Additional synonyms
in the sense of emigrate
Definition
to leave one's native country to settle in another country
He emigrated to Belgium.
Synonyms
move abroad,
move,
relocate,
migrate,
remove,
resettle,
leave your country
in the sense of excite
Definition
to make (a person) feel so happy that he or she is unable to relax because he or she is looking forward eagerly to something
I only take on work that excites me.
Synonyms
thrill,
inspire,
stir,
stimulate,
provoke,
awaken,
animate,
move,
fire,
rouse,
exhilarate,
agitate,
quicken,
inflame,
enliven,
galvanize,
foment
in the sense of fraternize
Definition
to associate on friendly terms
Executives fraternized with the personnel of other banks.
Synonyms
associate,
mix,
socialize,
keep company,
unite,
hang out (informal),
mingle,
cooperate,
concur,
consort,
sympathize,
hang with (informal, US),
hobnob,
go around with
in the sense of gambit
Definition
an opening remark or action intended to gain an advantage
They said the plan was no more than a clever political gambit.
Synonyms
tactic,
move,
policy,
scheme,
strategy,
trick,
device,
manoeuvre,
ploy,
stratagem
in the sense of go away
I wish he'd just go away and leave me alone.
Synonyms
leave,
withdraw,
exit,
depart,
move out,
go to hell (informal),
decamp,
hook it (slang),
slope off,
pack your bags (informal),
make tracks,
get on your bike (British, slang),
bog off (British, slang),
sling your hook (British, slang),
rack off (Australian, New Zealand, slang)
in the sense of impress
Definition
to make a strong, lasting, or favourable impression on
What impressed him most was their speed.
Synonyms
excite,
move,
strike,
touch,
affect,
influence,
inspire,
grab (informal),
amaze,
overcome,
stir,
overwhelm,
astonish,
dazzle,
sway,
awe,
overawe,
make an impression on
in the sense of incite
Definition
to stir up or provoke to action
He incited his fellow citizens to take revenge.
Synonyms
provoke,
encourage,
drive,
excite,
prompt,
urge,
spur,
stimulate,
set on,
animate,
rouse,
prod,
stir up,
inflame,
instigate,
whip up,
egg on,
goad,
impel,
foment,
put up to,
agitate for or against
in the sense of induce
Definition
to persuade or use influence on
I would do anything to induce them to stay.
Synonyms
persuade,
encourage,
influence,
get,
move,
press,
draw,
convince,
urge,
prompt,
sway,
entice,
coax,
incite,
impel,
talk someone into,
prevail upon,
actuate
in the sense of influence
Definition
to persuade or induce
The conference influenced us to launch the campaign.
Synonyms
persuade,
move,
prompt,
urge,
counsel,
induce,
incline,
dispose,
arouse,
sway,
rouse,
entice,
coax,
incite,
instigate,
predispose,
impel,
prevail upon
in the sense of initiative
Definition
a first step
There's talk of a new peace initiative.
Synonyms
plan,
deal,
proposal,
act,
action,
measure,
scheme,
strategy,
technique,
suggestion,
procedure,
gambit
Additional synonyms
in the sense of inspire
Definition
to stimulate (a person) to activity or creativity
What inspired you to change your name?
Synonyms
motivate,
move,
cause,
stimulate,
encourage,
influence,
persuade,
spur,
be responsible for,
animate,
rouse,
instil,
infuse,
hearten,
enliven,
imbue,
spark off,
energize,
galvanize,
gee up,
inspirit,
fire or touch the imagination of
in the sense of instigate
Definition
to cause to happen
The violence was instigated by ex-members of the secret police.
Synonyms
provoke,
start,
encourage,
move,
influence,
prompt,
trigger,
spur,
stimulate,
set off,
initiate,
bring about,
rouse,
prod,
stir up,
get going,
incite,
kick-start,
whip up,
impel,
kindle,
foment,
actuate
in the sense of lead
Definition
to influence someone to act, think, or behave in a certain way
It was not as straightforward as we were led to believe.
Synonyms
cause,
prompt,
persuade,
move,
draw,
influence,
motivate,
prevail,
induce,
incline,
dispose
in the sense of leave
Definition
to go away (from a person or place)
Just pack your bags and leave.She was not allowed to leave the country.
Synonyms
depart from,
withdraw from,
go from,
escape from,
desert,
quit,
flee,
exit,
pull out of,
retire from,
move out of,
disappear from,
run away from,
forsake,
flit (informal),
set out from,
go away from,
hook it (slang),
pack your bags (informal),
make tracks,
abscond from,
bog off (British, slang),
decamp from,
sling your hook (British, slang),
slope off from,
take your leave of,
do a bunk from (British, slang),
take yourself off from (informal)
in the sense of make a move
Definition
to do something which will produce a response
A week before the deal, they made a move to pull out.
Synonyms
take action,
act,
do something,
take the initiative,
get moving (informal),
take measure
in the sense of manoeuvre
Definition
military or naval exercises, usually on a large scale
The camp was used for military manoeuvres.
Synonyms
movement,
operation,
exercise,
deployment,
war game
in the sense of manoeuvre
Definition
a contrived, complicated, and possibly deceptive plan or action
manoeuvres to block the electoral process
Synonyms
stratagem,
move,
plan,
action,
movement,
scheme,
trick,
plot,
tactic,
intrigue,
dodge,
ploy,
ruse,
artifice,
subterfuge,
machination
in the sense of measure
Definition
a particular action intended to achieve an effect
He said stern measures would be taken against the rioters.
Synonyms
action,
act,
step,
procedure,
means,
course,
control,
proceeding,
initiative,
manoeuvre,
legal action,
deed,
expedient
in the sense of migrate
Definition
to go from one place to settle in another, esp. in a foreign country
The farmers have to migrate if they want to survive.
Synonyms
move,
travel,
journey,
wander,
shift,
drift,
trek,
voyage,
roam,
emigrate,
rove
in the sense of migration
the mass migration of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries
Synonyms
wandering,
journey,
voyage,
travel,
movement,
shift,
trek,
emigration,
roving
Additional synonyms
in the sense of mix
Definition
to be outgoing in social situations
He mixes with people younger than himself.
Synonyms
socialize,
associate,
hang out (informal),
mingle,
circulate,
come together,
consort,
hobnob,
fraternize,
rub elbows (informal)
in the sense of motion
Definition
the process of continual change in the position of an object
the laws governing light, sound and motion
Synonyms
movement,
action,
mobility,
passing,
travel,
progress,
flow,
passage,
locomotion,
motility,
kinesics
in the sense of motivate
Definition
to inspire and encourage someone to do something
How do you motivate people to work hard and efficiently?
Synonyms
stimulate,
drive,
inspire,
stir,
arouse,
get going,
galvanize,
incentivize
in the sense of motivate
Definition
to give a reason or inspiration for a course of action to someone
His hard work was motivated by a need to achieve.
Synonyms
inspire,
drive,
stimulate,
provoke,
lead,
move,
cause,
prompt,
stir,
trigger,
set off,
induce,
arouse,
prod,
get going,
instigate,
impel,
actuate,
give incentive to,
inspirit
in the sense of movement
Definition
the manner of moving
I could watch your every movement.
Synonyms
move,
act,
action,
operation,
motion,
gesture,
manoeuvre
in the sense of opportunity
Definition
a good chance or prospect
I was given an opportunity to bathe and shower.I had the opportunity to go abroad and study.
Synonyms
chance,
opening,
time,
turn,
hour,
break (informal),
moment,
window,
possibility,
occasion,
slot (informal),
scope,
look-in (informal),
opRtunET
in the sense of persuade
Definition
to make (someone) do something by reason or charm
the event which persuaded the United States to enter the war
Synonyms
cause,
prompt,
lead,
move,
influence,
motivate,
induce,
incline,
dispose,
impel,
actuate
in the sense of proceed
Definition
to walk or go
She proceeded along the hallway.
Synonyms
go on,
continue,
advance,
progress,
carry on,
go ahead,
move on,
move forward,
press on,
push on,
make your way,
crack on (informal)
in the sense of prod
Definition
to rouse (someone) to action
a tactic to prod the government into spending more on education
Synonyms
prompt,
move,
urge,
motivate,
spur,
stimulate,
rouse,
stir up,
incite,
egg on,
goad,
impel,
put a bomb under (informal)
in the sense of prompt
Definition
to motivate or cause someone to do something
The recession has prompted consumers to cut back on buying cars.
Synonyms
cause,
move,
inspire,
stimulate,
occasion (formal),
urge,
spur,
provoke,
motivate,
induce,
evoke,
give rise to,
elicit,
incite,
instigate,
impel,
call forth
Additional synonyms
in the sense of propel
He is propelled by the need to make his family proud.
Synonyms
impel,
drive,
push,
prompt,
spur,
motivate
in the sense of push
Definition
to spur or drive (oneself or another person) in order to achieve more effort or better results
Her parents kept her in school and pushed her to study.
Synonyms
urge,
encourage,
persuade,
spur,
drive,
press,
influence,
prod,
constrain,
incite,
coerce,
egg on,
impel,
browbeat,
exert influence on,
inspan (South Africa)
in the sense of quit
Definition
to leave (a place)
Police were called when he refused to quit the building.
Synonyms
leave,
depart from,
go out of,
abandon,
desert,
exit,
withdraw from,
forsake,
go away from,
pull out from,
decamp from,
take off (informal),
pack your bags (informal)
in the sense of recommend
Definition
to advise as the best course or choice
I recommend that you consult your doctor.
Synonyms
advise,
suggest,
advance,
propose,
urge,
counsel,
advocate,
prescribe,
put forward,
exhort (formal),
enjoin
in the sense of reconsider
Definition
to think about again, with a view to changing one's policy or course of action
We want you to reconsider your decision to resign.We urge you to reconsider.
Synonyms
rethink,
review,
revise,
think again,
think twice,
reassess,
re-examine,
have second thoughts,
change your mind,
re-evaluate,
think over,
think better of,
take another look at
in the sense of removal
Definition
the process of moving one's possessions from a previous address to a new one
Home removals are best done in cool weather.
Synonyms
move,
transfer,
departure,
relocation,
flitting (Scottish, NorthernEngland, dialect)
in the sense of remove
Definition
to change the location of one's home or place of business
They removed to America.
Synonyms
move,
transfer,
transport,
shift,
quit,
depart,
move away,
relocate,
vacate,
flit (Scottish, NorthernEngland, dialect)
in the sense of rouse
Definition
to provoke or excite
He did more to rouse the crowd than anybody else.
Synonyms
excite,
move,
arouse,
stir,
disturb,
provoke,
anger,
startle,
animate,
prod,
exhilarate,
get going,
agitate,
inflame,
incite,
whip up,
galvanize,
bestir
in the sense of ruse
Definition
an action or plan intended to mislead someone
This was a ruse to divide them.
Synonyms
trick,
deception,
ploy,
hoax,
device,
manoeuvre,
dodge,
sham,
artifice,
blind,
subterfuge,
stratagem,
wile,
imposture (formal)
in the sense of shift
Definition
to move from one place or position to another
We shifted the vans and used the area for skateboarding.
Synonyms
remove,
move,
transfer,
displace,
relocate,
rearrange,
transpose,
reposition
Additional synonyms
in the sense of transpose
Definition
to change the order of (letters, words, or sentences)
Genetic engineers transpose bits of material from one organism to another.
Synonyms
transplant,
move,
transfer,
shift,
displace,
relocate,
reposition
in the sense of trick
Definition
a deceitful or cunning action or plan
That was a really mean trick.
Synonyms
deception,
trap,
fraud,
con (slang),
sting (informal),
manoeuvre,
dodge,
ploy,
scam (slang),
imposition,
gimmick,
device,
hoax,
deceit,
swindle,
ruse,
artifice,
subterfuge,
canard,
feint,
stratagem,
wile,
imposture,
fastie (Australian, slang)
in the sense of walk
Definition
to pass through, on, or over on foot
They walked in silence for a while.
Synonyms
stride,
wander,
stroll,
trudge,
go,
move,
step,
march,
advance,
pace,
trek,
hike,
tread,
ramble,
tramp,
promenade,
amble,
saunter,
take a turn,
traipse (informal),
toddle,
make your way,
mosey (informal),
plod on,
perambulate,
footslog
All related terms of 'move'
make a move
leave, split, be off, set off, depart
move mountains
perform miracles, work wonders, do the impossible, achieve the impossible
on the move
in transit, moving, travelling, journeying, on the road
get a move on
speed up, hurry (up), get going, get moving, get cracking
move heaven and earth
struggle, work hard, strive, spare no effort, try very hard