move on: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘move on’ mean?

The idiom "move on" means to leave a situation or past event behind and continue with one's life or focus on something else.

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The idiomatic expression "get a move on" is closely related to the concept of "move on." While both phrases convey the idea of progression and forward movement, "get a move on" specifically emphasizes the need for prompt action or urgency. It is often used as a friendly and informal reminder to someone to speed up or start doing something quickly. This phrase can be applied to various situations, such as completing a task, meeting a deadline, or simply not wasting time.

The idiom "turn the page" is another related expression that is connected to the idea of moving on. When used metaphorically, "turn the page" means to leave behind a past event, experience, or chapter in one's life and begin anew. It implies a willingness to move forward, embrace change, and open oneself to new opportunities. Just as turning a physical page in a book signifies moving from one chapter to the next, this idiom symbolizes a psychological shift and a fresh start.

Advance and proceed to shift and evolve.

Similarly, the phrase "make a move" is closely tied to the concept of forward progress. It can refer to taking action or making a decision in order to initiate change or achieve a goal. "Make a move" implies a proactive approach and a readiness to step outside of one's comfort zone. This idiom is often used in contexts such as relationships, career advancement, or personal development, indicating the importance of taking initiative and seizing opportunities.

The expression "out of the way" is another idiom that can be related to the concept of moving on. When something is described as being "out of the way," it means that it is no longer an obstacle or hindrance. This phrase suggests that a problem or issue has been resolved or removed, allowing for progress and forward movement. By removing obstacles that are in the way, individuals can focus on their goals and move on with their lives.

On the other hand, the idiom "live in the past" contrasts with the notion of moving on. It refers to the tendency of some individuals to dwell on or remain fixated on past experiences or events. When someone is said to "live in the past," they are often seen as being unable or unwilling to let go of the past and move forward. This idiom highlights the importance of embracing the present and focusing on future opportunities rather than dwelling on what has already happened.

The idiomatic expression "move on" encompasses the concept of leaving behind the past and progressing forward. It signifies personal growth, resilience, and the ability to adapt to new circumstances. The related idioms "get a move on," "turn the page," "make a move," "out of the way," and "live in the past" further emphasize various aspects of moving on, such as urgency, embracing change, taking initiative, removing obstacles, and avoiding dwelling on the past. By understanding and applying these idioms, individuals can navigate through life's challenges, strive for personal growth, and embrace new opportunities.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom move on can be used in a sentence:

  • After the breakup, she decided it was time to move on and start dating again.
  • Despite the setback, the team decided to move on and focus on their next match.
  • Once you realize that your past mistakes can't be changed, it's important to forgive yourself and move on.

An analysis of the idiom move on:

The idiom move on is commonly used to express the idea of progressing forward or leaving behind a certain situation, often with the notion of moving on from a negative experience or emotion. It can imply letting go of the past or accepting a change in circumstances. The idiom can be applied in various contexts, such as relationships, sports, or personal growth. In each example, the phrase is used to indicate the action of transitioning or shifting focus from one state or situation to another.

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