"Make A Move" Explained: How to Use This Common English Phrase

Ever felt that awkward pause in a conversation, wondering if you should say something more? Or perhaps you've seen an opportunity, like a job opening or a chance to meet someone new, but hesitated? That’s where understanding the English slang phrase "make a move" can be a game-changer for ESL learners. This common phrase is all about taking initiative. Learning to use "make a move" confidently can help you navigate social situations more smoothly and sound like a native. This guide will cover its meaning, real-life usage, and provide examples to build your vocabulary.

Table of Contents

• What Does “Make A Move” Mean?
• Context and Usage of “Make A Move”
• Example Sentences with “Make A Move”
• Related Slang Words
• Conclusion

What Does “Make A Move” Mean?

The phrase "make a move" essentially means to take action, often to initiate something, especially in social or romantic contexts, or to advance a plan or objective. It implies a decision to stop waiting and start doing. When someone decides to make a move, they are being proactive rather than passive.

The general feeling it conveys is one of initiative, sometimes boldness or courage, depending on the situation. It’s a very common phrase in informal English, particularly prominent in American slang, but understood more broadly. Understanding this piece of modern slang is key for vocabulary building if you want to grasp conversational nuances.

More: Hit The Road: Meaning, Usage, and Examples of This Slang

Context and Usage of “Make A Move”

So, when and where will you hear someone say they need to "make a move"? Let's break down the typical context and usage to help you master this piece of English slang.

• Who usually says it?

  • It's commonly used by people of all ages, but especially young adults and adults navigating social interactions, dating, or even career opportunities. It’s part of everyday informal English.

• In what settings?

  • Social Gatherings & Dating: This is a very common context. If someone is interested in another person romantically, their friends might encourage them to "make a move" (e.g., ask for their number, start a conversation, ask them out).
  • Parties: You might hear it when someone is deciding to approach a group of people or, conversely, when they decide it's time to leave the party ("Alright, it's getting late, I should probably make a move.").
  • Professional Life: While more informal, it can be used to describe taking initiative in a career context, like applying for a new role or proposing a new project. For instance, "The company needs to make a move into the European market."
  • General Decisions: It can also mean to simply take action or make a decision in a general sense, like in a game or a plan. "It's your turn in chess, make a move."
  • Online Chats & Pop Culture: You’ll frequently encounter this phrase in movies, TV shows, and online conversations, reflecting its real-life usage.

• Tone:

  • The tone is generally casual and informal. It can be encouraging ("You should totally make a move!"), decisive ("I'm going to make a move."), or even slightly urgent if it refers to leaving a place.

Learning to recognize these contexts will help you understand when it's appropriate to use "make a move" yourself. It's a versatile phrase that shows you're ready to take action.

More: 'Hit The Road' Explained: Guide to This Common English Slang

Example Sentences with “Make A Move”

Seeing how "make a move" is used in everyday conversation is the best way to understand its meaning and learn how to use it naturally. Here are a few examples in a dialogue format:

1. Romantic Interest:

   • Person A: "Sarah seems really cool, and I think she might be interested in me."
   • Person B: "Well, don't just stand there! You should make a move and ask for her number."

2. Leaving a Party:

   • Person A: "This party was fun, but I'm getting pretty tired."
   • Person B: "Yeah, me too. I think it's time to make a move and head home."

3. Career Opportunity:

   • Person A: "That new manager position looks like a great opportunity for me."
   • Person B: "You should definitely apply. If you don't make a move, someone else will get it."

4. Starting a Task:

   • Person A: "We've been planning this project for weeks."
   • Person B: "I agree. It's time we make a move and actually start working on it."

5. General Initiative:

   • Person A: "The other team is gaining on us in the competition."
   • Person B: "We need to make a move quickly if we want to win."

These examples show the versatility of the phrase "make a move" in various real-life usage scenarios, from personal relationships to professional settings. According to Merriam-Webster, one of the definitions is "to take action," which perfectly encapsulates these uses.

More: Jet Explained: Master This Slang for Quick Departures

Related Slang Words

If you want to expand your vocabulary of informal English phrases related to taking initiative or making a decision, here are a few alternatives or closely related terms to "make a move":

These common phrases can be great additions to your vocabulary building efforts, helping you sound more like a native speaker in various social situations.

Conclusion

Understanding and using the phrase "make a move" is a fantastic way to enhance your conversational English and sound more natural. It’s a versatile piece of modern slang that signifies taking initiative, whether in your personal life, social interactions, or even professional endeavors. Remember, to "make a move" is to be proactive and take control of a situation.

Now that you know the meaning, definition, and how to use "make a move," try to listen for it in conversations or in pop culture. Practice using it yourself when the context is right!

What about you? Can you think of a time you had to make a move? Share your own example sentence in the comments below, or let us know if you have any questions! We’d love to hear from you. And don't forget to check out our other articles on English slang words!