Move the chains: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Move the chains” mean?

"Move the chains" means to make progress or advance, especially in a systematic or organized manner.

What context can I use the in?

Example

The team's offense was able to move the chains and score a touchdown.

Example

With each completed task, she was able to move the chains towards her goal.

Example

The company's new marketing strategy helped them move the chains and increase their sales

Is “Move the chains” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Move the chains” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Move the chains” effectively in context?

You can use "Move the Chains" to describe making progress or advancing towards a goal, especially in a systematic or organized manner. For example, if a team is working on a project and they are making steady progress, you might say, 'Great job, guys! We're really moving the chains on this one.'

• 1. Sports

  The team's offense was able to move the chains and score a touchdown.

• 2. Personal Development

  With each completed task, she was able to move the chains towards her goal.

• 3. Business

  The company's new marketing strategy helped them move the chains and increase their sales.

Similar phrases to “Move the chains”:

Make headway

To make progress or advance towards a goal

Example

Despite the challenges, they were able to make headway and complete the project on time.

Step by step

To make progress gradually and steadily

Example

She followed the plan step by step and was able to achieve her desired outcome.

Keep the ball rolling

To maintain or continue progress or momentum

Example

Let's keep the ball rolling and build upon the success we've already achieved.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Move the chains” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Move the Chains" is unknown.

Is “Move the chains” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Move the Chains" is a common expression in everyday conversation, particularly in sports-related contexts. It is often used to describe progress or advancement towards a goal.

What tone does “Move the chains” have?

"Move the Chains" conveys a tone of accomplishment and progress. It is typically used in a positive context to highlight successful efforts in making forward movement.

Can “Move the chains” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Move the Chains" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that can be used in various contexts, such as sports, personal development, and business. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations like presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The team's offense was able to move the chains and score a touchdown.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "move the chains"!' to imply making progress or advancing towards a goal.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• advance
• make headway
• make progress
• make strides
• make forward movement

Antonyms

• stagnate
• fall behind
• regress
• stand still
• lose ground