move up
B1 neutral inseparable both
In simple words
To go higher or get a better position — in a job, a list, or on a seat.
Literal meaning: To physically shift in an upward direction — partially transparent.
Meanings
1 B1 neutral
To advance to a higher position in a career, organisation, or league.
"She worked hard for years and finally moved up to senior manager."
Grammar: inseparable
2 A2 neutral
To shift along or upward to make room for others.
"Can everyone move up a few seats so the latecomers can sit together?"
Grammar: inseparable
3 B2 neutral
To increase in value, price, or ranking.
"Tech stocks moved up sharply after the positive earnings report."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
In career and social contexts, 'move up' implies progress and ambition. It can also be used literally when asking someone to shift in a queue or on a bench.
Commonly used with
ladder career rank league queue class
Forms
Base
move up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
moves up
he/she/it
Past simple
moved up
yesterday
Past participle
moved up
have + pp
-ing form
moving up
continuous
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Synonyms
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