1 A2 neutral
To move to one side so that there is room for someone or something else.
"Could you move over a little? I need somewhere to sit."
inseparable
move over
A2 neutral inseparable intransitive
To shift to one side to make room, or to give up a position to someone else.
In plain English
To slide or shift to the side so someone else can fit or take your place.
What does "move over" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B1 idiomatic informal
To allow someone else to take your job, role, or dominant position.
"It's time for the older generation to move over and let younger leaders take charge."
“
Move over, Silicon Valley.
— The Economist, headline, c. 2019
inseparable
3 A2 neutral
To change lanes or shift position while driving.
"The police officer signalled for the driver to move over to the right lane."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To move across to the other side — mostly transparent.
Actually means
To slide or shift to the side so someone else can fit or take your place.
Usage tip
In its literal sense, commonly used when asking someone to shift on a seat or bench. Figuratively, it implies someone is being replaced or superseded, sometimes with a dismissive tone.
Words that pair with "move over"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
seat lane position room space bench
How to conjugate "move over"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
move over
I/you/we/they
3rd person
moves over
he/she/it
Past simple
moved over
yesterday
Past participle
moved over
have + pp
-ing form
moving over
continuous
Hear "move over" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "move over" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "move over"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
Keep exploring
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