What Does “Move toward sth” Mean?
“Move toward sth” means to physically or figuratively go in the direction of something. It can describe progress or approaching a goal or place.
Introduction
The phrase “move toward sth” is a common phrasal verb used in English to describe motion or progress in relation to an object, goal, or idea. Understanding the “move toward sth meaning” helps learners use it correctly in everyday conversations and writing. Whether you are talking about literally walking closer to a place or making progress toward a goal, this phrase is versatile and widely used. It is important to know how to use it properly with different contexts to communicate clearly and naturally.
Quick Info Box
- Phrasal verb: move toward something
- Type: Intransitive (can be transitive when used figuratively)
- Level: A2–B2
- Meaning: To go in the direction of something physically or figuratively
Structure (Grammar Rules)
“Move toward sth” is usually inseparable, meaning you cannot put the object between “move” and “toward.”
- Correct: move toward the door
- Incorrect: move the door toward
It can be followed by a noun or pronoun (something, a goal, a place).
How to Use “Move toward sth”?
You can use “move toward sth” to describe physical movement or progress in non-physical contexts.
- Physical movement: “She moved toward the exit.”
- Progress: “The company is moving toward a new strategy.”
It often implies a gradual approach or development rather than a sudden change.
Examples
Here are some natural examples using “move toward sth in a sentence”:
- He moved toward the stage confidently before starting his speech.
- Our team is moving toward completing the project by next month.
- The negotiations moved toward a positive conclusion after hours of discussion.
- She moved toward the idea of studying abroad after talking with her friends.
Common Mistakes
Sometimes, learners confuse the word order or use the phrase incorrectly.
- Incorrect: Move the goal toward.
- Correct: Move toward the goal.
- Incorrect: I am moving toward to success.
- Correct: I am moving toward success.
Remember, “toward” is a preposition and should be followed directly by a noun or pronoun without extra prepositions.
Differences / Synonyms
Some similar phrases include “head toward,” “go toward,” and “advance toward.” While they share meanings, they differ slightly.
- “Head toward” often implies intentional direction or leadership.
- “Go toward” is more general for physical movement.
- “Advance toward” suggests progress, often in formal or military contexts.
“Move toward” fits both physical and figurative uses and is more neutral in tone.
Common Collocations
“Move toward” is often used with these objects:
- Goal: Progress or aim
- Exit/door: Physical direction
- Solution: Problem-solving progress
- Change: Gradual development
- Decision: Approaching a conclusion
Related Phrasal Verbs
Here are related phrasal verbs of move toward sth:
Real-life Dialogue
Here’s a short conversation using “move toward sth”:
Anna: Are we moving toward the right location for the meeting?
Ben: Yes, I see the building ahead. Let’s move toward it quickly.
Anna: Great, I hope we move toward a good agreement today.
Practice
Fill in the blank with the correct form of “move toward”:
- She is __________ a career in medicine.
- The children __________ the playground after school.
- We need to __________ a solution before the deadline.
Answers: moving toward, moved toward, move toward
FAQs
- What does “move toward sth” mean? It means to go physically or figuratively in the direction of something.
- Is “move toward” separable? No, it is usually inseparable.
- Can “move toward” be used figuratively? Yes, it can describe progress toward goals or ideas.
- What is the difference between “move toward” and “head toward”? “Head toward” suggests intentional direction, while “move toward” is more general.
- Can I say “move toward to success”? No, you should say “move toward success” without “to.”