MOVE AROUND

📖 Definition

Move around means to change location or position frequently, either physically or metaphorically. It can also imply changing perspectives or focus.

Examples in context

📖 Definition

Move around means to change location or position frequently, either physically or metaphorically. It can also imply changing perspectives or focus.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable
No
Move around cannot be separated by an object.
Register
Neutral
It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
Transitive
No
Move around does not take a direct object.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense Form Example
Present Simple move around I move around to find new inspiration.
Past Simple moved around She moved around the city looking for an apartment.
Present Continuous moving around They are moving around the country for their new project.
Present Perfect have moved around We have moved around many times in the past few years.

💡 When to Use

Seeking new opportunities
Use it when describing someone looking to explore new areas for potential advantages or growth.
Example: "She moved around different departments to find her niche."
Exploring new environments
Appropriate when someone is trying out different locations or environments to gain experience.
Example: "We moved around several countries before settling down."
Adapting to change
Use it to describe someone adjusting to new circumstances or challenges.
Example: "During his career, he moved around a lot to adapt to economic changes."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Using as transitive
❌ Wrong: She moved the boxes around the room.
✅ Correct: She moved around to find the boxes.
💡 Tip: Remember, 'move around' doesn't take a direct object.
Incorrect separation
❌ Wrong: He moved his ideas around quickly.
✅ Correct: He moved around quickly with his ideas.
💡 Tip: Don't separate 'move around' with an object.
Using inappropriately formally
❌ Wrong: Please move around your documents promptly.
✅ Correct: Please review your documents.
💡 Tip: 'Move around' is not formal when related to documents.
Practice

MOVE AROUND - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

  1. Listen and repeat the audio as many times as needed to improve your pronunciation
  2. Use the audio as a dictation exercise, trying to write what you hear and understand
  3. Create a new sentence following the structure of the example sentences

Examples in Context

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

navigate wander

Antonyms

settle

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"To truly understand a culture, one must ___ around its landscapes and cities."

settle
move around
disprove
obstruct

"To find your true purpose, sometimes you must move around, exploring different paths to discover where your spirit truly belongs."

In Context

In the early 20th century, a groundbreaking figure, Marie Curie, moved around the scientific world, pioneering research in radioactivity. Born in Poland in 1867, she studied in secret due to restrictions against women. Her journey took a significant turn when she moved to Paris in 1891, joining the University of Paris to further her education. Marie did not stay still; she constantly moved around different labs, experimenting and learning. In 1903, her efforts, alongside her husband Pierre, earned them the Nobel Prize in Physics. Despite her achievements, Marie faced hostility, but she persevered, moving around to find the necessary support and equipment. In 1911, she became the first person to win two Nobel Prizes. Her relentless pursuit saw her founding the Curie Institutes in Paris and Warsaw. Even as World War I erupted, Marie moved around the battlefields, setting up mobile radiography units, saving countless lives. Her legacy continues to move around in scientific circles, inspiring generations. Marie Curie's ability to pivot and explore new horizons exemplified resilience and innovation. Her life reminds us of how vital it is to move around intellectually and physically, breaking barriers in pursuit of knowledge.

Frequently Asked Questions about Move Around

What is the origin of move around?

+
The origin of 'move around' lies in the combination of 'move,' meaning to change position, and 'around,' indicating an area or perimeter. It evolved to include both physical and metaphorical movement, adaptable to various contexts and time periods, signifying dynamic activity.

Can move around be used in formal and informal contexts?

+
Yes, 'move around' is versatile, fitting both formal and informal settings. In formal contexts, use it to describe physical or metaphorical shifts. In informal scenarios, it can suggest exploring or adapting, making it suitable for various conversational and professional dialogues.

What is the difference between move around and navigate?

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'Move around' implies frequent or exploratory changes in position, often casually or without a set plan. 'Navigate,' however, suggests a more deliberate and skillful movement, often requiring planning or expertise, typically used in more specific or technical contexts.
Browse All National Parks Phrasal Verbs
National Parks Phrasal Verbs - WeeklyCross
Alessandra Nóbrega
About the Author

Alessandra Nóbrega

History teacher who fell in love with English! This passion led me to specialize in languages and work on bilingual education projects. With 37 years in education, I believe learning should be meaningful – not just memorization.

Learn more about my journey



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