move the puck forward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "move the puck forward" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to sports, particularly hockey, or metaphorically to indicate progress in a situation or project. Example: "In order to win the game, we need to focus on our strategy and move the puck forward."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

They refused to challenge this passive defensive formation and did not move the puck forward.

The New York Times

They refused to challenge this defensive formation and did not move the puck forward.

The New York Times

With regard to shootouts, the general managers — while almost to a man expressing distaste for the shootout but conceding that its popularity ensures its continued existence — clarified the rule mandating that the shooter must continuously move the puck forward.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

"Just move the puck".

The New York Times - Sports

I watched the Soviets move the puck toward Dryden.

The New York Times - Sports

"We all can skate and pass the puck and move the puck quick," Brylin said.

The New York Times - Sports

Both teams can move the puck fast in tight spaces.

The New Yorker

"We have to move the puck around better".

The New York Times - Sports

43 Russia move the puck around well, but no shots.

The New York Times

The quicker you move the puck is ultimately the most important thing.

Los Angeles Times

They're a big physical team and they move the puck really well.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "move the puck forward" metaphorically, ensure the context clearly relates to making progress or advancing a project or initiative. For example, "To move the project forward, we need to address these key issues."

Common error

Avoid using "move the puck forward" in contexts that have nothing to do with progress or advancement. Overusing sports metaphors can confuse the reader if the connection is not immediately apparent.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "move the puck forward" functions primarily as an idiomatic expression, describing the action of advancing play in ice hockey. Ludwig AI identifies its use in both literal sporting contexts and as a metaphor for making progress in other fields, as the examples illustrate.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "move the puck forward" is an idiomatic expression primarily rooted in ice hockey, signifying the action of advancing the puck during play. However, as indicated by Ludwig AI, its usage extends metaphorically into various contexts to denote progress, advancement, or taking initiative in projects, business, and other endeavors. While not exceedingly common, this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently appears in news and media, often adopting a neutral to informal register. To maintain clarity, it is advisable to ensure the metaphorical use aligns with concepts of progress and strategic advancement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

advance the puck

Focuses on the action of progressing the puck in a game, similar to the original phrase.

propel the puck forward

Emphasizes the force and direction of moving the puck, adding a sense of dynamism.

progress the play

Highlights the overall advancement of the game or strategy, rather than just the puck.

push the attack

Indicates an offensive drive to gain advantage, changing focus from defense to offense.

drive the puck up the ice

Specifies the direction and location of the puck movement, providing more detail.

carry the puck forward

Highlights the control and transport of the puck, adding agency to the action.

transition the puck

Implies a change in possession or zone, adding a tactical dimension.

develop the offensive

Shifts the focus from a single action to a broader strategic objective.

move the play ahead

Emphasizes advancing the entire game situation, not just the puck's position.

initiate the offensive

Highlights starting an attack or drive, shifting focus to the commencement of action.

FAQs

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

You can use "move the puck forward" literally when discussing hockey, such as, "The team needs to focus on their passing to move the puck forward." Metaphorically, it means to make progress, as in, "To move the project forward, we need to address these key issues."

What does it mean to "move the puck forward" in business?

In a business context, "move the puck forward" is a metaphor for making progress, advancing an initiative, or achieving a goal. It implies taking action to keep things moving in a positive direction.

What can I say instead of "move the puck forward"?

You can use alternatives like "advance the puck", "make progress", or "drive the initiative" depending on the context.

Is "move the puck forward" only used in sports contexts?

While "move the puck forward" originates from ice hockey, it's often used metaphorically in various fields like business, project management, and personal development to signify making progress or taking action.