move on

Meaning

To move on means to stop thinking about a past relationship and start focusing on the future. It involves accepting that the relationship has ended and being emotionally ready to live your life or date someone new. The phrase is neutral and widely used in both everyday conversations and supportive advice.

Examples

• It took her over a year to finally move on after the breakup.

  It took her over a year to finally move on after the breakup.

• I think you need to move on and stop checking his social media.

  I think you need to move on and stop checking his social media.

• They separated months ago, but he still hasn't moved on.

  They separated months ago, but he still hasn't moved on.

• It's hard to move on when you still have to work with your ex.

  It's hard to move on when you still have to work with your ex.

• She has finally moved on and is dating someone new now.

  She has finally moved on and is dating someone new now.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ She moved on of her ex-boyfriend.

  ✓ She moved on from her ex-boyfriend.

  The correct preposition to use after 'move on' when mentioning the person or past situation is 'from', not 'of'.

• ✗ I want to move on myself.

  ✓ I want to move on.

  Unlike some other languages, 'move on' is not reflexive in English. You do not need to add 'myself', 'himself', or 'herself'.

Related Expressions

Practice

• It's time to ___ from this relationship and find someone who appreciates you.

  💡 Phrasal verb meaning to progress or let go.

  Show answer

  move on

• She found it hard to ___ after they broke up.

  💡 To accept the end of a relationship and look forward.

  Show answer

  move on