make the first move

USAGE SUMMARY

"make the first move" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase whenever you are encouraging someone to take the initiative and start a task. For example, "If you want to get the project started, you'll have to make the first move."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I have to make the first move.

The New Yorker

He did not make the first move.

The New York Times

Better to make the first move.

The New York Times

"Someone has to make the first move".

The New York Times

Let them make the first move.

The New York Times - Sports

Go ahead, ladies, make the first move.

The Washington Post

It was up to me to make the first move.

The New York Times

No business can afford to make the first move.

The Economist

I wasn't going to make the first move".

The New York Times

But Hunt can't make the first move to join them.

The New Yorker

"Everyone expects everyone else to make the first move.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you want to encourage someone to take action and not wait for others, use "make the first move" to inspire initiative.

Common error

Don't assume someone else will always initiate; proactively "make the first move" to achieve your goals and foster progress.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make the first move" functions as an idiomatic expression used to encourage or describe the act of initiating an action, interaction, or process. It highlights the importance of taking initiative rather than waiting for others.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

35%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "make the first move" is a commonly used idiomatic expression that encourages initiative and proactive behavior. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and widespread applicability across various contexts like News, Media and Academia. Alternative phrases such as "take the initiative" or "lead the way" can be used depending on the desired nuance. When using the phrase, remember that while it's often beneficial to be proactive, assessing the situation before acting is crucial. Consider potential consequences to promote better outcomes. With an expert rating of 4.5 and appearing in multiple authoritative sources, "make the first move" stands as a solid and useful phrase in the English language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take the initiative

Emphasizes the act of starting something proactively.

be the first to act

Directly states the act of initiating action.

lead the way

Suggests guiding or directing others by being the first to act.

get the ball rolling

Idiomatic expression for initiating an activity or process.

start the ball rolling

A slight variant of 'get the ball rolling', but conveys the same meaning of initiating an activity.

set the wheels in motion

Suggests starting a series of events or actions.

break the ice

Focuses on initiating a social interaction or conversation.

seize the opportunity

Highlights taking advantage of a chance to start something.

take the plunge

Implies overcoming hesitation to begin something.

initiate proceedings

Formal expression for starting a formal action or process.

FAQs

How can I use "make the first move" in a sentence?

You can use "make the first move" when you want to encourage someone to take initiative. For example, "If you want to resolve the conflict, you'll have to "make the first move" and reach out to them."

What is a more formal alternative to "make the first move"?

In a more formal context, you could use phrases like "take the initiative" or "initiate proceedings" which convey a similar meaning but sound more professional.

Is it always advisable to "make the first move"?

While taking initiative is often beneficial, it's essential to assess the situation. Sometimes, waiting and observing before acting can be more strategic. Consider the potential consequences before you "make the first move".

What's the difference between "make the first move" and "lead the way"?

"Make the first move" implies starting something, while "lead the way" suggests guiding or directing others. You can "make the first move" to start a project, then "lead the way" to guide your team.