Phrasal Verb - Moving over
Image uploaded to Pixabay by bogitw
.Definition
The phrasal verb "move over" carries both literal and figurative meanings, signifying a shift or displacement. Literally, it means to physically change one's position, usually by sliding or shifting sideways, in order to create space for another person or object. This is a common request or instruction in situations where people are seated or standing closely together, such as on a bench, in a car, or on public transport, to accommodate someone else or to simply gain more room. It can be used as a polite request ("Could you please move over?") or a more direct command ("Move over!").
Figuratively, "move over" implies relinquishing a position, role, dominance, or status to make way for someone or something new. This sense often suggests a transition or a generational shift, where established individuals, ideas, or technologies are replaced or overshadowed by newer ones. It can describe a veteran employee making space for a younger talent, an older technology being superseded by an innovative one, or an established paradigm giving way to a new one. In this context, it signifies not just physical space but also metaphorical 'room' in terms of influence, market share, or societal relevance.
Examples
| No. | Example |
|---|---|
| 1 | Could you please move over a little so I can sit down next to you? |
| 2 | The bus was packed, and I had to ask the woman by the window to move over. |
| 3 | Move over, Rover, you're taking up the entire couch! |
| 4 | With the rise of artificial intelligence, many old ways of working will have to move over. |
| 5 | The veteran CEO decided it was time to move over and let a younger leader take the helm. |
| 6 | If everyone just moves over slightly, we can all fit into this group photo. |
| 7 | The cat refused to move over, stubbornly remaining sprawled across the keyboard. |
| 8 | New streaming services are forcing traditional cable providers to move over or risk obsolescence. |
| 9 | She had to move over quickly on the narrow path to avoid colliding with the cyclist. |
| 10 | It's hard for established artists to move over when new, exciting talents emerge. |