What are the definitions of “move towards”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Make preparations for something.
The government are MOVING TOWARDS free elections.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “move towards”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb move towards is to make preparations or progress in the direction of something, such as a goal, plan, or change. For example, it can mean working on a project, making changes in a system, or preparing for an event.
What are the different verb forms of “move towards”?
| Root Verb | move towards |
| Third Person Singular Present | moves towards |
| Present Participle | moving towards |
| Simple Past | moved towards |
| Past Participle | moved towards |
Example
We are moving towards a more sustainable future.
Example
She moves towards her goals with determination.
Example
The company is moving towards a paperless office.
Example
Last year, they moved towards a healthier lifestyle.
Example
The organization has moved towards greater transparency in recent years.
What kind of phrasal verb is “move towards”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“move towards” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
The country is moving towards democracy.
Example
We are moving towards a more inclusive society.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“move towards” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The country is moving towards democracy.
Example
We are moving towards a more inclusive society.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “move towards”?
Good things to know
Does “move towards” have an informal or formal tone?
Move towards is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as business meetings, academic discussions, or official documents.
