Make a move on somebody
phrase
To show romantic interest in someone, often by flirting or trying to get their attention.
He was too shy to make a move on her at the party.

Often appears as...
- intend to make a move on somebody
- attempt to make a move on somebody
Usage tips
Informal
Colloquial
phrase
To attempt to gain control of something for personal gain.
The new CEO made a move on the company’s lucrative contracts.

Often appears as...
- make a move on a business
- make a move on a contract
Usage tips
Informal
phrase
To show romantic interest in someone, often by flirting or trying to get their attention.
He was too shy to make a move on her at the party.

Often appears as...
- intend to make a move on somebody
- attempt to make a move on somebody
Usage tips
Informal
Colloquial
phrase
To attempt to gain control of something for personal gain.
The new CEO made a move on the company’s lucrative contracts.

Often appears as...
- make a move on a business
- make a move on a contract
Usage tips
Informal
Definition 1 of 2

Subtle Approach
Often implies a cautious or indirect way of showing interest to avoid rejection.

He tried to make a move on her by liking all of her social media posts.
Colloquial Use
The phrase is casual and might be inappropriate in formal contexts.

At the networking event, he didn't feel it was right to make a move on a colleague.
Risk of Misunderstanding
Using the phrase can be misinterpreted as objectifying or disrespectful.

When he said he wanted to make a move on her, his friends warned him to be respectful.
Subtle Approach
Often implies a cautious or indirect way of showing interest to avoid rejection.

He tried to make a move on her by liking all of her social media posts.
Colloquial Use
The phrase is casual and might be inappropriate in formal contexts.

At the networking event, he didn't feel it was right to make a move on a colleague.
Risk of Misunderstanding
Using the phrase can be misinterpreted as objectifying or disrespectful.

When he said he wanted to make a move on her, his friends warned him to be respectful.
Subtle Approach
Often implies a cautious or indirect way of showing interest to avoid rejection.

He tried to make a move on her by liking all of her social media posts.
Colloquial Use
The phrase is casual and might be inappropriate in formal contexts.

At the networking event, he didn't feel it was right to make a move on a colleague.
Risk of Misunderstanding
Using the phrase can be misinterpreted as objectifying or disrespectful.

When he said he wanted to make a move on her, his friends warned him to be respectful.
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