take a move

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "take a move" is not technically correct in written English since the correct phrase is "make a move." However, it is sometimes used in informal English or slang, usually with the meaning of "get going" or "take action," and is sometimes used as an imperative command.
For example: Come on, take a move and let's go on this adventure!.

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

She said listeners responded positively to the program, but it would take a move to different station and another three years before Wilder's "She Got Game" hit the public-radio airwaves last January.

The New York Times

Led Zeppelin, "Custard Pie". This is built from blues bricks: the sexual metaphor (which sometimes resurfaces in hip-hop, cf. Domino's 1993 hit "Sweet Potato Pie") and the chords, give or take a move in the turnaround.

The New Yorker

John Hartson believes Tottenham star Gareth Bale would take a move to Real Madrid in his stride, if it were to happen.

BBC

I doubt Intel will take a move like that lying down, and in fact may be holding all the cards in this situation.

TechCrunch

"Why take a move like that that's so provocative when you have a document in place that everybody's signed onto?" he said, referring to an April 2012 agreement between the city and the state.

Huffington Post

The best way to go is to take a move from soccer, shuttle runs.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

The ozone concentration can be assumed to be uniform in the mixed layer, as long as we take a moving air mass under the conditions of a strong convection.

Environmental Systems Research

It took a move from Hampshire to Surrey for the penny to drop.

The Guardian - Sport

"I can't imagine any administration taking a move like that," Sen. Bob Corker (R-Tenn). told reporters in October.

The Washington Post

"They are determined to replace him with someone who takes a move favorable view toward their country".

The New Yorker

Hampshire have produced the potentially brilliant Chris Tremlett, although it appears to have taken a move to Surrey to unlock his ability.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using "make a move" instead of "take a move" for grammatically correct and clearer communication. While "take a move" appears in some contexts, "make a move" is more widely accepted.

Common error

Avoid using "take a move" in formal writing. It's better to opt for the standard phrase "make a move" to ensure grammatical correctness and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take a move" functions as a verb phrase often used informally to suggest initiating an action or changing one's position. Although it appears in various contexts according to Ludwig, its usage is less common than its more standard counterpart, "make a move".

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "take a move" exists in various sources, it's generally considered less grammatically correct and less common than "make a move". Ludwig indicates that its usage leans towards informal contexts, and it's advisable to use the standard "make a move" in formal writing. Its purpose is to prompt action or suggest a change in strategy. Consider alternatives like "take action" or "make a decision" for clearer communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make a move

Uses "make" instead of "take", providing a more grammatically standard alternative with very similar meaning.

take action

Focuses on the act of doing something, highlighting initiative and promptness.

make a decision

Emphasizes the decision-making aspect, highlighting thoughtful choice.

relocate

Specifically refers to changing location, whether it's a job or residence.

take steps

Implies a series of actions or procedures being undertaken.

shift position

Suggests a change in viewpoint, role, or physical placement.

change course

Indicates altering a plan or strategy due to new information or circumstances.

advance

Implies forward progress, often in a strategic or tactical context.

proceed

Focuses on continuing or moving forward with a plan or activity.

maneuver

Describes a strategic or skillful move, especially to gain an advantage.

FAQs

Is "take a move" grammatically correct?

While sometimes used informally, "take a move" isn't considered grammatically standard. The more accepted form is "make a move".

What's the difference between "take a move" and "make a move"?

"Make a move" is the idiomatic and grammatically correct phrase. "Take a move" may be understood but is less precise and less common.

When can I use "take a move"?

You can use "take a move" in very informal settings or casual conversation, but it's best to avoid it in formal writing or professional contexts. Opt for "make a move" instead.

What are some alternatives to "take action" similar to "take a move"?

Similar alternatives that focus on action include "make a decision", "take steps", or "change course" depending on the context.