move in unison

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "move in unison" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where multiple subjects are acting or moving together in harmony or synchrony. Example: "The dancers moved in unison, creating a mesmerizing performance that captivated the audience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

"They communicate over cellphones and move in unison".

The New York Times

At times the dancers were required to move in unison.

The New York Times - Arts

Her eyes did not move in unison -- causing the double vision.

The New York Times

Such differences in yield are usually consistent and move in unison with one another.

The New York Times

Nine dancers move in unison, without emotional expression, in precisely fixed choreographic patterns designed to demonstrate sheer grace of movement.

Encyclopedia Britannica

All three move in unison, and the color red becomes significant in a world enveloped in blackness.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

You want to see the bows moving in unison.

Independent

And two dancers moved in unison like choreographic twins.

The New York Times - Arts

for fleeting moments he moves in unison- geometrical beams of lighting separate his structure.

The New York Times

Another sets Acosta against Edward Watson, two very different men moving in unison.

Independent

The soccer team moves in unison but everyone holds the same relative position.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing complex systems or organizations, use "move in unison" to emphasize that all components are functioning together seamlessly towards a common goal.

Common error

Be careful not to use "move in unison" when you simply mean 'move together'. "Move in unison" implies a higher degree of coordination and synchronization, not just proximity or simultaneous action. For example, using "move together" is more appropriate if describing a crowd simply walking in the same direction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "move in unison" functions primarily as a verb phrase, describing a coordinated action performed by multiple entities. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and widely used. It specifies the manner in which something is moving, emphasizing the synchronization of movement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

22%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

2%

Arts

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "move in unison" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe synchronized actions or movements. As Ludwig AI confirms, it enjoys widespread use across varied sources, including news media, scientific publications, and encyclopedias. The phrase's primary function is to emphasize coordination, harmonious action, and agreement. While suitable for both formal and informal contexts, it is crucial to differentiate its precise meaning from simpler expressions like "move together". Remember to use "move in unison" when you specifically want to convey the impression of seamless synchronization or coordinated functionality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

act in concert

Replaces the verb "move" with "act", emphasizing coordinated action rather than physical movement. Has a slightly more formal tone.

operate in sync

Uses "operate" to imply a functional coordination and "sync" as a shorter version of synchronicity.

work in coordination

Highlights the collaborative aspect of the movement or action; suitable when teamwork is involved.

move in synchronization

A more formal and technical alternative, emphasizing precise timing.

act as one

Emphasizes complete unity in action, suggesting a shared purpose or goal.

coordinate movements

Focuses specifically on the coordination of physical movements, suitable in contexts like dance or sports.

perform in harmony

Implies a smooth and pleasing coordination, often used in artistic or musical contexts.

walk in lockstep

Suggests a rigid and precise form of unison, sometimes implying a lack of individual thought.

move as a unit

Highlights the collective nature of the movement, portraying the subjects as a single entity.

keep in step

Focuses on maintaining the same pace and rhythm, suitable for describing marching or synchronized walking.

FAQs

What does "move in unison" mean?

The phrase "move in unison" means to act or proceed together, simultaneously and harmoniously. It implies a high degree of coordination and synchronization in movement or action.

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

You can use "move in unison" to describe various scenarios, such as: "The dancers "moved in unison", creating a stunning visual display" or "The company's departments must "move in unison" to achieve its strategic goals."

What are some alternatives to "move in unison"?

Alternatives include "act in concert", "operate in sync", "work in coordination", or "move in synchronization", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "move in unison" or "move together"?

"Move in unison" suggests a higher degree of synchronization and coordination than "move together". Choose "move in unison" when emphasizing harmonious, simultaneous action, and "move together" when simply indicating simultaneous movement.