Differences between move in on and move on

Move in on usually means to approach or take action towards something or someone with the intention of gaining control or influence, whereas move on generally means to leave behind a situation or place and continue with one's life.

Meanings and Definitions: move in on vs move on

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Move in on

1Approach, often stealthily.
As he watched, the hyenas began to MOVE IN ON the hapless wildebeest.

Move on

1Change the subject or your job.
She MOVED ON to another company where the salary was considerably better.
2Make people move from a place.
The police MOVED the crowd ON because they were holding up the traffic.

Usage Examples: move in on, move on in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

move in on

Example

The cat slowly moved in on the unsuspecting bird.

Example

She moves in on the conversation, trying to gather information.

move on

Example

It's time to move on from this topic and discuss something else.

Example

She moves on quickly after a breakup.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Move in on

take over

To gain control or authority over something or someone.

Example

The new CEO plans to take over the company and implement major changes.

muscle in

To intrude or interfere in a situation or activity without being invited or welcome.

Example

He always tries to muscle in on our conversations, but we ignore him.

edge in

To gradually move closer to something or someone with the intention of taking control or influencing the situation.

Example

The company is trying to edge in on the market share of its competitors by offering better prices and services.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Move on

let go

To release or relinquish something or someone that is no longer serving a purpose or causing harm.

Example

After the breakup, she decided to let go of her ex-boyfriend and focus on her own happiness.

turn the page

To move forward from a difficult or unpleasant situation and start a new chapter in one's life.

Example

After losing his job, he decided to turn the page and pursue his passion for photography.

move forward

To progress or advance in one's life or career after overcoming a setback or challenge.

Example

Despite the obstacles, she remained determined to move forward and achieve her goals.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “move”

Phrasal Verbs with “in on”

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

Differences in move in on vs move on: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: move in on or move on?

In daily conversation, people use move on more often than move in on. This is because move on is used for more common situations such as leaving a job or ending a relationship. Move in on is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about taking control of a situation or gaining influence over someone. So, while both phrases are used, move on is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of move in on and move on

Move in on and move on are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of move in on and move on

The tone of move in on and move on can differ based on context. Move in on often carries a competitive or aggressive tone when related to taking control or gaining influence, while move on typically has a reflective and hopeful tone, especially when referring to leaving behind a difficult situation or moving forward in life.

move in on & move on: Synonyms and Antonyms

Move in on

Synonyms

Antonyms

retreat
withdraw
recede
move away
back off

Move on

Synonyms

Antonyms