move on
MOOV ON
/muːv ɒn/
To leave the place where you are and go somewhere else; to start a new activity or subject.
Often used to describe emotional recovery after a setback or the progression of a meeting.
The story behind the word. The simple combination of 'move' and 'on' has been used since the 14th century to indicate continued motion, but the emotional sense of 'recovering' is a 20th-century development.
Word relationships
- proceed: Proceed is more formal and often used in legal or official contexts.
- advance: Advance implies moving forward toward a goal, while move on just implies leaving the current state.
- dwell: To dwell on something is to stay stuck on a past event or thought.
- stagnate: Stagnate means to stop developing or moving.
Commonly confused with
- move out: Move out specifically refers to leaving a home or apartment.
Collocations
- move on to the next topic
- move on with your life
- move on from the past
Example sentences
- "It’s been a year since the breakup; it’s time for you to move on." Advice on emotional healing.
- "We've spent enough time on the budget; let's move on to the next item on the agenda." Managing a meeting.
Memory hook
Imagine a conveyor belt; you must stay on it to reach the next station. Move on to the new.
When not to use
Avoid using it if you are literally just moving an object; it almost always refers to people or topics.
Fun facts
- In the UK, police officers famously use the phrase 'Move on, please' to disperse crowds.
Related words
Explore more words
make progress, advance, settle, recuperate, drag on, adjourn
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