move to one side

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "move to one side" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when instructing someone to shift or reposition themselves or an object away from a central point or another person. Example: "During the emergency drill, please move to one side to allow for clear access to the exits."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

She instructed the men to move to one side of the room and the women on the other.

Vice

It was really hard to me to move to one side to another".

The New York Times - Sports

They move to one side of the room if they feel a statement is completely acceptable, and to the other if completely unacceptable.

The Guardian

The financial adviser, 45, said: "We weren't very high up when we juddered to a halt and we were told by staff to move to one side of the pod to 'recalibrate the weight', which made some people a bit nervous.

The Guardian

We reached agreement that the students would move to one side of the walkway and sit down as a show of commitment to nonviolence.

Huffington Post

The student and I then left the building and using the human mike, students were informed that a request had been made that they move to one side and sit down so that the Chancellor could exit.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

I put moving to one side, concentrated on my health.

The Guardian - Opinion

The entrance was moved to one side of the house.

The New York Times

We moved to one side, only to brush past the branches of trees lining the street.

The New Yorker

Thinking she also wished to enjoy the spectacle, he moved to one side.

The Guardian

Second, the boat may have capsized when migrants moved to one side of the overcrowded vessel.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When giving instructions, use "move to one side" to clearly indicate a lateral shift in position, especially when precision is needed, such as in safety protocols or crowd management.

Common error

Avoid using "move to one side" in casual conversation where simpler alternatives like "step aside" or "shift over" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "move to one side" functions primarily as an imperative verb phrase, often used to give a direct instruction or command. It directs someone to shift their position laterally. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "move to one side" is a common and grammatically sound way to instruct someone to shift their position laterally. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It's frequently found in news and media, as well as in instructional contexts. While versatile, consider using simpler alternatives like "step aside" or "shift over" in casual settings. When writing, use "move to one side" when precision is important and avoid overusing it in informal contexts. By using this phrase thoughtfully, you can ensure clarity and effectiveness in your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

step aside

This alternative is a shorter, more direct way of asking someone to move.

shift over

This is a casual way of asking someone to make room.

make way

This implies that someone should clear a path.

move aside

This alternative is very similar, but slightly more formal.

give way

Implies yielding or allowing someone to pass.

stand back

This suggests creating distance, often for safety.

get out of the way

This is a more forceful way to ask someone to move.

yield

Implies giving up space or position, more formal.

relocate to the side

This alternative uses different words in order to provide semantic diversity, but it is mostly similar to the original phrase.

clear the area

This suggests a broader clearing of space, not just a lateral movement.

FAQs

How can I use "move to one side" in a sentence?

You can use "move to one side" to instruct someone to shift their position. For example, "During the presentation, please "move to one side" so everyone can see the screen."

What are some alternatives to "move to one side"?

Alternatives include "step aside", "shift over", or "make way". The best choice depends on the context and the desired level of formality.

Is "move to the side" grammatically correct?

While "move to the side" is understandable, ""move to one side"" is more idiomatic and commonly used, suggesting a specific direction or purpose in the movement.

When is it appropriate to use "move to one side"?

It's appropriate in situations where you need someone to physically reposition themselves, such as in a crowded area or during a structured activity requiring specific positioning.