Make a move means to take a step, to start doing something, or to take your turn in a game. In informal British English it has a second meaning: to leave, to get ready to go. I'd better make a move means it's time for me to go.
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I'd better / I should make a move (= leave); make a move = take action; make the first move; make your move
- It's getting late, so I think I'll make a move.
- Nobody wanted to make the first move, so the meeting was silent for a minute.
- She waited for the right moment to make her move and ask for a promotion.
What changed
First versionCome on, it's your turn — do your move!
RevisionCome on, it's your turn — make your move!
Move, meaning a turn in a game or an action, goes with make, not do: make your move, make the first move. Do your move isn't used.
Get a move on sounds similar but means hurry up: Get a move on, the film starts in ten minutes! And make the first move means to take the first step, to take the initiative, for example after an argument or when getting to know someone.
Your turn
It's nearly midnight and my last train leaves at 12:15, so I'd better ___.
Show the answer
make a move — The speaker is rushing for the last train and is about to leave. In this meaning the phrase only exists with make; people don't say do a move.
Write what you would say to leave politely when you're a guest at someone's home. Give the reason why you need to go.
Thanks for a lovely evening, but I should make a move — I have to be at work by eight tomorrow.
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