bust a move

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bust a move" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is an idiomatic phrase that is used to tell someone to take action or to make a move. Example sentence: "Let's bust a move and get this project done before the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

Some girls may prefer the brightly colored, all-ages games like Katamari Damacy, Bust A Move, Lego Star Wars, Sims, or just about any Mario game.

WikiHow

Crazy Legs about to bust a move".

The New York Times

"Then you know what to do, dogg: bust a move!".

The Guardian

"To go on Ellen's show, to be dancing with her, to bust a move with her".

The New York Times

No one has more of a reason to bust a move than Kaila Charles.

The Washington Post

1.44am GMT The way it looks tonight Channing Tatum and actress Charlize Theron bust a move.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

And I have to leave the last word for Square Enix and Taito's addictive Bust-A-Move Universe.

The New York Times - Arts

Back in the day, Puzzle Bobblewas called Bust-a-Move and itwas played on arcade machines rather than pocket-sized consoles.

Independent

Will Candy Crush fans find a new fix with Bubble Witch Saga 2? Bubble Witch Saga 2 is based on the Puzzle Bobble / Bust-A-Move games.

The Guardian - Tech

Install three AAA batteries and you'll see a menu of 35 games, including complete editions of Taito Space Invaders Part II and Bust-A-Move.

The New York Times - Tech

iPhone / iPad Related: The best iPhone and iPad games of 2014 Angry Birds Stella POP! (Free + IAP) Just like the Bubble Witch Saga games, this takes its inspiration squarely from classic console series Bust-a-Move / Puzzle Bobble.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "bust a move" when you want to inject a sense of informality and fun into your writing, particularly when referring to dancing or taking decisive action.

Common error

Avoid using "bust a move" in formal or professional settings where a more serious or straightforward tone is expected. Opt for phrases like "take action" or "proceed" in such contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bust a move" functions as an idiomatic verb phrase. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's used to suggest initiating an action, often with a playful or energetic connotation. The examples provided show its usage in varied contexts, from literal dancing to metaphorical action-taking.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

17%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "bust a move" is a common and grammatically sound idiomatic verb phrase that suggests taking action or dancing, as supported by Ludwig AI. It's best suited for informal settings and should be avoided in formal or professional contexts. Its usage is most prevalent in News & Media, Wiki and Academia. Remember to consider the context and audience when deciding whether to use this phrase. Related options include "take action", "make a move", or "start dancing", depending on the specific meaning you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make a move

A more generic way of saying 'take action', less idiomatic.

take action

Focuses on the 'taking action' aspect, removing the playful connotation.

get your groove on

Refers exclusively to dancing enthusiastically.

show your moves

Emphasizes demonstrating dance skills.

get a wiggle on

Similar meaning relating to dance but with an imperative that refers to the start

start dancing

Specifically refers to the act of dancing, omitting other possible meanings.

shake a leg

An informal way to urge someone to hurry or start moving.

get going

Focuses on the aspect of departing or leaving.

step up to the plate

Focuses on taking responsibility and acting decisively.

make tracks

Refers to leaving a place, often quickly or suddenly.

FAQs

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

You can use "bust a move" to suggest dancing, like in, "The music is great, let's bust a move!" It can also mean to take action, as in, "We need to "take action" now to meet the deadline, so let's bust a move!"

What's a less informal alternative to "bust a move"?

If you need a more formal phrase, consider using alternatives like "make a move", "take action", or "proceed". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "bust a move" appropriate for professional communication?

While "bust a move" is perfectly acceptable in informal settings, it's generally not suitable for professional communication. Use more formal language such as "take initiative" or "execute a plan" instead.

What does it mean to "bust a move"?

The phrase "bust a move" has a few meanings. Most commonly, it means to start dancing. It can also mean to take action or make progress toward a goal.