move in reverse

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "move in reverse" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the action of going backward or retracing steps, whether literally or metaphorically. Example: "To avoid the obstacle, the driver had to move in reverse to find a safer route."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Sometimes they are walking backwards, sometimes forwards, and sometimes they have been edited to move in reverse.

The Guardian - Books

In the second act events move in reverse, and Gross, his humanism dented, becomes top dog again.

The New York Times

Although the name promises more than it delivers (it doesn't make the sidewalk move in reverse), it is a very good pedometer.

Harvard University

As for the afternoon's star grouping of Rory McIlroy, Luke Donald and Lee Westwood, they all made a big move – in reverse.

The New York Times

While service industries continue to expand at a healthy clip and most economists still think that a recession is unlikely next year, the roughly one-fifth of the American economy that manufactures goods is starting to move in reverse.

The New York Times

Finally, on Thursday Girardi tried the initial move in reverse, pinch-hitting Rodriguez for Ibanez against the left-handed reliever Drew Smyly, but Rodriguez flied out to center with two runners on base.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

That tide is now moving in reverse.

The New York Times

The van began moving in reverse, Mr. Browne said, and traveled several car lengths backward.

The New York Times

For Cambodia, the process of justice seems to be moving in reverse.

The New York Times

But now it is moving in reverse, broadly ordering the public schools to become more segregated.

The New York Times

Backwash Motion in the water caused by the propeller(s) moving in reverse (astern) direction.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "move in reverse" when you want to emphasize a literal or figurative shift in direction or progress. It is appropriate when describing physical movement or abstract concepts like policy changes or economic trends.

Common error

Avoid using "move in reverse" when a simpler, more direct term like "back up" or "retreat" would be clearer. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "move in reverse" functions as a verb phrase within a sentence, often acting as the predicate. It describes an action of going backward or retracing steps. Ludwig shows examples in both literal and figurative contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Wiki

13%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "move in reverse" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe the act of going backward, both literally and figuratively. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is versatile enough to be used in various contexts, including describing vehicle movement, changes in policy, or economic downturns. While widely accepted, consider whether simpler terms like "back up" or "retreat" might offer greater clarity. Its neutral register makes it suitable for general and news writing, though specific technical contexts may warrant more specialized vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reverse direction

Explicitly states changing to the opposite direction.

move backward

A more general form of moving towards the starting position

go backwards

A more literal description of moving in the opposite direction.

go into reverse

Specifically related to vehicles and machinery.

backtrack

Implies retracing steps or actions, often due to a change of mind or failure.

turn back

Indicates a change of direction to return to the starting point.

walk backwards

A literal action of walking in reverse

retreat

Suggests withdrawing from a position or situation.

undo progress

Implies to cancel the achievements

recede

Implies a gradual movement away or back.

FAQs

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

You can use "move in reverse" to describe literal movement, such as "The car had to move in reverse to get out of the tight parking spot", or to describe a change in progress or policy, as in "The country's economic growth seems to be moving in reverse".

What are some alternatives to "move in reverse"?

Some alternatives include "go backwards", "retreat", "recede", or "reverse direction". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it always appropriate to use "move in reverse"?

While grammatically correct, "move in reverse" may not always be the most concise or clear option. Consider whether a simpler alternative like "back up" or "turn back" would be more effective in your writing.

What's the difference between "move in reverse" and "go backwards"?

"Move in reverse" and "go backwards" are similar, but "move in reverse" often implies a more deliberate or controlled action, while "go backwards" can suggest a more general or unintentional movement in the opposite direction.