it started to move

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it started to move" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe the beginning of motion or action, often in a narrative or descriptive context. Example: "As the storm approached, the leaves rustled, and suddenly, it started to move, revealing the hidden creature beneath."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

When Irene reached the New York City area, it started to move inland, its winds reduced to tropical storm level, less than 73 miles an hour.

The New York Times

It started to move into its lane; the driver laid on his horn, and I had to grab control to avoid an accident.

The New York Times

It started to move.

The New York Times - Travel

"She pushed it back and it started to move again.

The Guardian - Film

with a bottle of water as it started to move.

The New Yorker

"Then it started to move and fell apart like a cracker box".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

It starts to move.

The New Yorker

It starts to move out of his reach.

The New Yorker

It allows the fibers in the bones and ligaments to shift and stretch before it starts to move again.

The New York Times - Science

With a widely held stock, "if you don't own it, and it starts to move very quickly, you can lose some relative performance," Mr. Gallagher said.

The New York Times

"Government is no longer an evil force that, anytime it starts to move, has to be chopped back," said Senator Charles E. Schumer, Democrat of New York.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing events in a narrative, use "it started to move" to clearly indicate the beginning of an action or process. This provides a sense of progression and can build suspense.

Common error

Ensure that the pronoun "it" has a clear and unambiguous referent within the context. Without a clear referent, the phrase "it started to move" can be confusing or misleading.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it started to move" primarily functions as a verbal phrase indicating the commencement of motion or action. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It typically serves as part of a larger sentence, describing the beginning of an event.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

32%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it started to move" is a versatile phrase used to describe the initiation of motion or a change in state. Ludwig AI confirms it as grammatically sound and widely applicable. It appears frequently in various contexts, notably News & Media and Science. When using this phrase, ensure that the pronoun "it" has a clear referent and that the context aligns with the desired level of formality. While alternatives exist for stylistic variation, "it started to move" remains a clear and effective way to convey the beginning of movement or action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it began its movement

Replaces "started" with "began" and uses a noun form of "move" for a slightly more formal tone.

it commenced moving

Substitutes "started" with "commenced", lending a more formal or technical feel.

it initiated motion

Replaces both "started" and "move" with more formal equivalents.

it stirred into motion

Adds a sense of initial resistance or effort before the movement begins.

it lurched into action

Implies a sudden, unsteady, or jerky start to the movement.

it roused itself to move

Suggests the object or entity was previously at rest and exerts effort to begin moving.

it shifted position

Focuses on a change in location rather than the start of movement.

it budged slightly

Indicates a minimal or hesitant start to the movement.

it eased into motion

Conveys a smooth and gradual beginning of movement.

it became mobile

Emphasizes the transition from a static state to one of potential movement.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "it started to move" for a more formal tone?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives such as "it began to move" or "it commenced moving". These options replace the more casual "started" with verbs that convey a sense of deliberate initiation.

What's a more descriptive alternative to "it started to move"?

To be more descriptive, you could use phrases like "it stirred into motion", implying a slow or labored beginning, or "it lurched into action", suggesting a sudden or unsteady start.

Is "it started moving" grammatically correct?

Yes, "it started moving" is grammatically correct and virtually interchangeable with "it started to move". Both phrases indicate the beginning of movement, but the former is slightly more concise.

How to use "it started to move" in a sentence?

Use "it started to move" to describe the initiation of motion, action, or a change in state. For example: "As the music swelled, it started to move across the dance floor."