Motion: meaning, definitions and examples

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motion

[ˈməʊʃ(ə)n ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in physics

The action or process of moving or being moved.

Synonyms

action, mobility, movement.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
motion	Best for talking about physical movement or gestures, especially in a mechanical or technical context. The motion of the planets is studied in astronomy He made a motion to approve the minutes of the meeting
movement	Suitable for describing the act of moving or being moved, often used in broader contexts like social movements or the arts. The movement for civil rights changed history She studied the movement of the dancers
action	Appropriate when referring to acts or deeds, often those that require effort or result in change. His actions saved the company from bankruptcy The movie is full of thrilling action scenes
mobility	Used when referring to the ability to move freely and easily, often in relation to physical capability or social mobility. After the surgery, she regained mobility in her arm Social programs aim to increase economic mobility

Examples of usage

He was in motion.
The laws of motion.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

legal

A formal proposal put to a legislature or committee.

Synonyms

proposal, resolution, suggestion.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
motion	Used in formal meetings or legislative contexts to indicate a formal step to initiate action or discussion. The committee made a motion to approve the budget He raised a motion to discuss the new policy changes
proposal	Used when presenting an idea, plan, or offer in a professional, business, or formal setting. Her proposal for the new marketing strategy was accepted They reviewed the proposal for constructing a new bridge
resolution	Used in formal or legal settings to represent a firm decision made after voting or deliberation. The board passed a resolution to expand operations The United Nations adopted a resolution to address climate change
suggestion	Commonly used in everyday conversations or informal situations to present an idea or advice. She made a suggestion to go to the new restaurant They welcomed any suggestions for improving the event

Examples of usage

The motion was passed.
She made a motion to adjourn.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

formal

To make a formal proposal or request, typically in a meeting or debate.

Synonyms

indicate, propose, suggest.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
motion	This word is often used in formal settings, especially in meetings or legal contexts, to introduce a proposal or idea that needs a decision or discussion. I would like to motion for an extension on the project deadline. The council will vote on the motion during the next meeting.
suggest	This word is generally used in informal or semi-formal settings, to offer an idea or plan without asserting it strongly. It often leaves room for discussion or other ideas. I suggest we take a break and reconvene in an hour. She suggested going to the new restaurant in town.
propose	This word is suitable for formal or semi-formal settings, where you are suggesting a plan or course of action clearly and in detail. I propose that we hire a new team member to handle the workload. The scientist proposed a new theory to explain the phenomenon.
indicate	This word is used when you want to show or point out something, often in a less formal context. It can be used in everyday situations where you need to give some information or signal something. Can you indicate where the nearest restroom is? The data indicates a significant increase in sales.

Examples of usage

He motioned for silence.
She motioned to approve the minutes.

Interesting Facts

Physics

In physics, motion is described in terms of speed, direction, and acceleration, which help us understand how and why objects move.
Newton's laws of motion explain how objects behave when forces act on them, influencing everything from planets to everyday objects.
The concept of inertia, a key part of motion, means that an object at rest stays at rest unless something pushes it.

Art and Dance

Many artists like to capture motion in their work, using techniques like blurring to show movement in painting or photography.
Dance is an art form that expresses emotion and storytelling through a variety of bodily motions.
The study of choreography includes creating patterns of motion in dance, emphasizing rhythm and fluidity.

Technology

Motion sensors are used in various devices, from smartphones to gaming consoles, allowing for interactive experiences.
Robotics heavily relies on motion control, enabling machines to replicate human movements in tasks ranging from assembly to surgery.
Self-driving cars use complex algorithms and motion tracking systems to navigate safely and efficiently.

Sports

In sports, understanding motion improves performance; athletes analyze their movements to enhance speed and efficiency.
Sports like gymnastics and skating are judged by how well athletes control their motion during routines.
Motion analysis technology helps coaches understand player dynamics and improve training methods.

Philosophy

The idea of motion has philosophical implications, raising questions about change, time, and existence throughout history.
Philosophers like Zeno presented paradoxes about motion, questioning whether movement is possible in a world of finite steps.
The notion that everything is in constant motion is central to various philosophical beliefs about the nature of reality.

Translations

Translations of the word "motion" in other languages:

🇵🇹 movimento

🇮🇳 गति

🇩🇪 Bewegung

🇮🇩 gerakan

🇺🇦 рух

🇵🇱 ruch

🇯🇵 動き (うごき)

🇫🇷 mouvement

🇪🇸 movimiento

🇹🇷 hareket

🇰🇷 움직임

🇸🇦 حركة

🇨🇿 pohyb

🇸🇰 pohyb

🇨🇳 运动 (yùndòng)

🇸🇮 gibanje

🇮🇸 hreyfing

🇰🇿 қозғалыс

🇬🇪 მოძრაობა

🇦🇿 hərəkət

🇲🇽 movimiento

Word Frequency Rank

At #632 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.

...
629 lost
630 beginning
631 rest
632 motion
633 poor
634 bring
635 nearly
...