change position

USAGE SUMMARY

"change position" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used in various contexts, such as discussing physical movement, rearranging objects, or shifting perspectives. Example: The dancers gracefully changed positions on the stage, creating a beautiful visual display. Example: Please change the position of the chairs to face the window for a better view. Example: I think it's time for us to change positions and look at this situation from a different angle.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I don't have ambition … to change position.

The Guardian

Our climate change position statement is available here.

The Guardian

They hold still for several minutes, then change position.

The New Yorker

To change position imperceptibly, especially at a tilt, is difficult.

The New York Times - Arts

She glances over my shoulder again: "I'm going to have to change position.

The Guardian - Film

Random thoughts intrude; I want to change position, I'm hungry, I'm anxious I'll fail.

The Guardian

Too nervous to change position, I keep my head down and slide gently across the field.

The Guardian - Travel

Beyond that, Ritzenhein scarcely seemed to change position over each circuit.

The New Yorker

"It's kind of like training, moving furniture," he said, bouncing in his seat to change position.

The New York Times

He either needs to change position or play alongside a reliable partner.

The Guardian - Sport

It would have been too much for us to ask for him to change position".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "change position" in technical writing, ensure the context clearly specifies whether it refers to a physical shift, a change in status, or an alteration of perspective. Be precise with your language to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "change position" without specifying what is changing position and why. For example, instead of saying "We need to change position", specify, "We need to "re-position" our marketing strategy to target a younger audience".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "change position" primarily functions as a verb phrase. It describes the action of altering the location, orientation, or stance of something or someone. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is usable in many contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

40%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "change position" is a versatile and frequently used verb phrase that describes altering the location, orientation, or stance of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and appropriate for various contexts, ranging from physical movements to shifts in strategic viewpoints. While common across News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources, it's crucial to use it precisely to avoid ambiguity, specifying what is changing position and why. Consider alternatives like ""re-position"", "alter location", or "shift stance" depending on the specific nuance you intend to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

re-position

Alternative phrasing emphasizing a deliberate change in position.

move around

Simple and direct way to express changing location.

alter location

Focuses specifically on changing physical location.

switch places

Indicates an exchange of locations between two entities.

relocate

Suggests a more significant change in location.

shift stance

Implies a change in opinion or attitude, rather than physical location.

rearrange placement

Emphasizes the act of reorganizing the arrangement of something.

transpose

Implies swapping positions between two or more things.

adjust alignment

Highlights making slight corrections to bring something into a better arrangement or order.

modify arrangement

Broader term indicating alteration in how things are set up or organized.

FAQs

How can I use "change position" in a sentence?

You can use "change position" to describe physical movement (e.g., "The dancer had to change position quickly"), or to describe a shift in strategy or opinion (e.g., "The company decided to change position on the environmental issue").

What are some alternatives to "change position"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like ""re-position"", "alter location", "shift stance", or "move around".

Is it correct to say "changing position" instead of "change position"?

Yes, "changing position" is grammatically correct, especially when used as a gerund or part of a continuous tense. For example, "Changing position frequently can help prevent pressure ulcers".

What does it mean when someone says they need to "change position" in a negotiation?

In a negotiation, to "change position" typically means to alter one's stance or demands in order to reach a compromise or agreement. This could involve modifying one's initial proposal or taking a different approach to the discussion.