decided not to move

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "decided not to move" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a choice or resolution to remain in a particular place or situation rather than relocating or changing position. Example: "After much consideration, she decided not to move to a new city for the job opportunity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

I decided not to move my grandmother.

The New Yorker

Then the sellers decided not to move after all.

The New York Times

This year, we've decided not to move the clock either forward or backward.

The New Yorker

But Italian Prime Minister Berlusconi decided not to move forward with the plan.

The New York Times

Before the final ruling, however, Ms. Henn-Lee decided not to move.

The New York Times - Tech

On April 15th, ITVS notified Lessin and Deal that it had "decided not to move forward with the project".

The New Yorker

Later, the owners decided not to move after all, and the house was taken off the market.

The New York Times

"Stop all sales... we decided not to move forward," the younger Mr. Navalaksana wrote to his brother in one 2009 e-mail.

The New York Times

Once the S.E.C. had decided not to move forward with the charges, it met with Ms. Schwartz to prepare her to testify at Mr. Tourre's trial.

The New York Times

Ms. Bennett, who is divorced, decided not to move from her condominium in Massapequa even though her daughter and granddaughters, 12 and 15, live in Los Angeles.

The New York Times

The city spent several million dollars to buy land for a new facility, which sits idle because the Red Sox decided not to move.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "decided not to move", ensure the context clearly indicates whether you are referring to a physical relocation, a change in strategy, or some other kind of movement. Clarity prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "move" always refers to physical relocation. Be specific if you intend a different meaning, such as a change in plans or strategies, to prevent misunderstanding. If not, clarify the specific aspect of moving.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "decided not to move" functions as a declarative statement indicating a choice or resolution against relocation or change. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "decided not to move" is a grammatically correct and very common expression used to convey a choice against relocation or change. As Ludwig AI illustrates through numerous examples, its neutral register makes it suitable for diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media. Related phrases include "opted to stay" and "chose to remain". When using this phrase, ensure clarity regarding the type of "move" being referenced to avoid ambiguity. Overall, the phrase is well-established and widely understood in English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

opted to stay

Indicates a preference for remaining in the current location or situation.

chose to remain

Emphasizes a deliberate choice to stay.

elected to stay put

Highlights a conscious decision to avoid moving.

resolved to stay

Suggests a firm decision to not relocate.

determined to remain

Focuses on the firmness of the decision to stay.

refrained from moving

Highlights the act of holding back from a move.

declined to relocate

Formally expresses the refusal to move.

stayed put

A more concise way of expressing the decision not to move.

halted relocation plans

Specific to situations where there were prior plans to move.

abandoned the move

Indicates a more definite cancellation of moving plans.

FAQs

How can I use "decided not to move" in a sentence?

You can use "decided not to move" to indicate a decision to stay in a particular place or situation. For example: "After careful consideration, they decided not to move to the new city."

What are some alternatives to "decided not to move"?

Alternatives include "opted to stay", "chose to remain", or "elected to stay put", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "decided not to move" or "chose not to move"?

Both "decided not to move" and "chose not to move" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. The choice between them often depends on personal preference or the specific tone you wish to achieve. The word chose can sound more elegant.

What does it mean when someone "decided not to move forward"?

When someone "decided not to move forward", it usually means they have chosen to abandon a plan, project, or course of action. It doesn't necessarily refer to physical movement. For example a prosecutor can decide not to move forward with the charge.