move abruptly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "move abruptly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a sudden or unexpected change in movement or action. Example: "The car moved abruptly to the left to avoid hitting the pedestrian."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

They move abruptly.

The New York Times - Arts

He tends to move abruptly among tasks.

The New Yorker

We move abruptly to Washington DC, nearly four decades on.

Independent

The move abruptly cancels a painstakingly negotiated bilateral agreement regulating American adoptions of Russians.

Independent

Anaphase follows as the separated chromatids move abruptly toward opposite spindle poles.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The move abruptly reversed Tyco's decade-long strategy of growth by acquisition.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

Ludwig had a top score, and moved abruptly out of the novice category.

The New York Times - Arts

This pairing has provided grounds for sweeping claims for damages whenever a company's share price moves abruptly.

The Economist

Religion had moved abruptly into the Shiite public space, but often in ways that made educated, religious Iraqis uncomfortable.

The New York Times

He also reacted to the music while he was sitting, shouting and moving abruptly to those accents, outlining excellence where it happened.

The New York Times - Arts

"Those who believe the A.K.P. is a party with a democratic agenda are now applauding it and believe we are moving abruptly toward democracy," said Ersin Kalaycioglu, a professor of political science at Sabanci University.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical actions, use "move abruptly" to convey a sense of immediacy and lack of anticipation. This can add dynamism to your writing.

Common error

While "move abruptly" is generally acceptable, consider more formal alternatives like "transition sharply" or "shift unexpectedly" in academic or professional writing to maintain a polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "move abruptly" functions primarily as a verb phrase modifying a subject. Ludwig AI indicates its correctness and usability, suggesting it's a standard way to describe a sudden action or change in position.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "move abruptly" is a grammatically correct and usable way to describe a sudden or unexpected shift in position or action. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is most commonly found in news and media contexts, along with scientific writings, suggesting a neutral register. While "move abruptly" effectively conveys immediacy, writers should consider using more formal alternatives in professional or academic settings. Remember that using this phrase adds dynamism to your writing when describing physical actions. Overall, "move abruptly" is best used to paint a vivid picture of unexpected movement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shift suddenly

Emphasizes the quick and unexpected nature of the movement, similar to "move abruptly".

change direction sharply

Focuses on a sudden alteration in trajectory or course.

veer suddenly

Highlights a rapid change in direction, often implying a deviation from a set path.

jerk quickly

Describes a short, sharp, and unexpected movement.

lurch forward

Indicates a sudden and unsteady movement forward.

take off suddenly

Implies an immediate and rapid departure or start.

start suddenly

Emphasizes the instantaneous nature of commencing an action.

spring up

Suggests a sudden and energetic upward movement.

jump up

Suggests a sudden rising in movement.

twitch suddenly

Describes a small, involuntary, and abrupt movement, such as a muscle spasm.

FAQs

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

You can use "move abruptly" to describe a sudden or unexpected change in position or action. For example, "The car "moved abruptly" to avoid the obstacle."

What are some alternatives to "move abruptly"?

Alternatives include "shift suddenly", "veer suddenly", or "jerk quickly", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "moved abruptly" or "abruptly moved"?

"Moved abruptly" is generally the preferred word order. While "abruptly moved" isn't grammatically incorrect, it's less common and can sometimes sound awkward. So "moved abruptly" sounds more natural.

What is the difference between "move abruptly" and "change suddenly"?

"Move abruptly" typically refers to a physical movement that is sudden and unexpected. "Change suddenly" is more general and can apply to any kind of change, not just physical movement.