move the narrative forward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "move the narrative forward" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing storytelling, writing, or any situation where progress in a narrative or argument is needed. Example: "In order to keep the audience engaged, it's essential to move the narrative forward with each chapter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

People suddenly appear, assume identities and move the narrative forward.

The New York Times - Books

Instead of conventional storytelling, juxtaposition and association move the narrative forward.

The New York Times - Books

In every chapter of "Sugar in the Blood," history, fact, analysis and personal reflection combine to move the narrative forward, both the grand story of slavery and sugar and the more mundane but always fascinating story of family and business.

The New York Times - Books

Women were central to these soaps, men were of course needed, but they remained on the periphery, to move the narrative forward.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

His clockwork, cause-and-effect plotting moves the narrative forward with inexorable logic and efficiency.

The New York Times

Details about how the Farms came to be, how Mexico became Aztlán and how Matteo Alacrán Primero became El Patrón become part of Matt's story as well: we learn them as he does, and his knowledge moves the narrative forward.

The New York Times - Books

The same "and then" -- I later read in E. M. Forster's "Aspects of the Novel" -- that is the fulcrum of all fiction, going back to the earliest time our ancestors sat about the communal fire spellbound by tales; the "and then" that moves the narrative forward and, most of all, keeps the reader or the listener hooked on yearning to know more of the story.

The New York Times - Arts

In Shadows Never Sleep, a story based on classic children's tales, the act of "zooming" is a fundamental part of moving the narrative forward.

Vice

The new Dallas picked up where the old show left off, moving the narrative forward based on the amount of actual time that had passed since the final episode, which is the same tack Twin Peaks is taking.

Vice

Move the story forward with your dialogue.

WikiHow

In any narrative, there is the material that moves the story forward.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use this phrase when you want to emphasize the active process of progressing a story or argument. Consider whether a more specific verb like "develop" or "propel" might be more appropriate for the context.

Common error

Avoid using "move the narrative forward" repeatedly in a single piece of writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "advance the story" or "develop the plot" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "move the narrative forward" functions as a verb phrase used to describe the action of progressing a story or argument. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is perfectly correct. Examples in Ludwig show its use in discussing books, movies, and even general events.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Books

35%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "move the narrative forward" is a common and correct phrase used to describe the progression of a story or argument. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is perfectly correct. It is most frequently found in news, media, and book contexts, maintaining a neutral to formal tone. When using this phrase, consider synonyms like "advance the story" or "develop the plot" to avoid repetition and maintain reader engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

progress the narrative

A more direct synonym, using "progress" instead of "move".

advance the storyline

Focuses on progressing the plot specifically.

drive the story forward

Implies a strong and deliberate effort to advance the plot.

propel the story

Emphasizes the driving force behind the narrative.

develop the plot

Highlights the unfolding and expansion of the storyline.

further the story

Suggests contributing to the story's progression.

push the narrative ahead

Similar to 'drive forward', suggesting forcefulness.

evolve the narrative

Focuses on the gradual development and transformation of the narrative.

carry the story onward

Implies continuation and momentum in the story.

expand the storyline

Highlights the broadening and enriching of the plot.

FAQs

How can I use "move the narrative forward" in a sentence?

You can use "move the narrative forward" to describe actions or events that progress a story. For instance, "The new evidence helped "move the narrative forward", revealing key details about the crime."

What are some alternatives to "move the narrative forward"?

Some alternatives include "advance the storyline", "propel the story", or "develop the plot". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis.

Is it better to say "move the story forward" or "move the narrative forward"?

Both phrases are acceptable, but "move the narrative forward" is often used in more formal or analytical contexts, while "move the story forward" is generally more common in casual conversation. The difference is subtle, and either can work depending on your audience and tone.

What does it mean to "move the narrative forward"?

To "move the narrative forward" means to progress the storyline, introduce new elements, or develop existing plot points in a way that maintains momentum and engages the audience. It implies active contribution to the story's unfolding.