a move toward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a move toward" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a shift or change in direction, often towards a goal or objective. Example: "The organization is making a move toward more sustainable practices in its operations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He likened it to a move toward socialized medicine.

The New York Times

Only a move toward "Medicare for all" can do that.

The New York Times

Politically, economically, it was a move toward industrial democracy.

The New Yorker

Some modern scholars, however, have regarded Vindex' rebellion as a move toward Gallic independence.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The playful element of modern literature has prevailed, a move toward lightness.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It was part of a move toward a more market-oriented economy.

The New York Times

A move toward ensemble acting was perhaps the logical continuation of efforts to achieve scenic realism.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Solving this problem will require domestic austerity and a move toward trade surpluses.

The Economist

In a move toward greater transparency, Facebook discloses its carbon footprint.

The New York Times

This year's poll, scheduled for June 12, could have signaled a move toward political normality.

The New York Times

When he made a move toward the child, she shot him.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a move toward" to describe intentional changes or shifts in strategy, policy, or opinion. This emphasizes a deliberate change in direction.

Common error

Avoid using "a move toward" with verbs that already imply movement or direction. For example, instead of saying "The company is progressing in a move toward sustainability", a more concise option is "The company is progressing toward sustainability".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a move toward" functions as a noun phrase often acting as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It describes a change in direction or a step in the process of achieving a specific goal. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a move toward" is a grammatically sound and versatile phrase used to describe a shift or progress in a particular direction. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It's commonly found in news, encyclopedias and scientific contexts, indicating changes in strategy, policy, or opinion. While interchangeable with alternatives like ""a shift towards"" or ""a progression towards"", it's essential to avoid redundancy by ensuring the verb used doesn't already imply movement. Understanding these nuances will enhance your writing and ensure clarity when conveying changes or advancements.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a shift towards

Emphasizes a change in position or direction, often gradual.

a transition to

Highlights the process of changing from one state or condition to another.

a progression towards

Suggests a forward movement or development in a particular direction.

an inclination towards

Indicates a leaning or preference for something.

a drift toward

Implies a gradual and often unintentional change in direction.

a turn toward

Highlights a change in focus or approach.

a step toward

Suggests an action taken to advance a particular goal.

a tendency to

Highlights a predisposition.

a bent toward

Implies a natural skill.

an advance toward

Indicates progress in a specific direction.

FAQs

How can I use "a move toward" in a sentence?

You can use "a move toward" to describe a shift or change in direction. For example, "The company's "a move toward" renewable energy sources is commendable".

What are some alternatives to "a move toward"?

Alternatives include "a shift towards", "a transition to", or "a progression towards", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a move toward" or "a move towards"?

Both "a move toward" and "a move towards" are grammatically correct and commonly used. The choice often depends on personal preference or regional usage. They are interchangeable.

What is the difference between "a move toward" and "a step toward"?

"A move toward" typically implies a broader shift in direction or strategy, while "a step toward" suggests a specific action taken to achieve a particular goal.