motion
/ˈməʊʃən/
The word describes a spectrum ranging from the raw physical act of movement to highly structured social signals. In its physical sense, it is more clinical or descriptive than "movement," often used in scientific or artistic contexts (like 'slow motion') to describe the quality of the action.
When used as a gesture, it implies a silent communication—a bridge between thought and action that bypasses speech. This usage carries a sense of efficiency or discretion.
In legal or parliamentary contexts, the word shifts from physical movement to the 'movement' of an idea through a system. Here, it is formal, rigid, and bound by protocol, representing a transition from a proposal to a decision.
Uncountable when describing the general physics of movement ('the motion of the waves'). Countable when referring to a specific hand gesture ('a sudden motion') or a formal legislative proposal ('to table a motion').
💬Casual Conversation
Is the budget approval in motion yet? I need to schedule resources.
Is the budget approval in motion yet? I need to schedule resources.
Like, almost. Just waiting for David to get the ball rolling.
Like, almost. Just waiting for David to get the ball rolling.
Meanings
The action or process of moving or being moved.
The slow motion of the clouds across the sky was hypnotic.
A formal proposal put to a vote in a meeting or legislative body.
The committee passed a motion to adjourn the meeting until next Tuesday.
A gesture, especially one used to communicate an idea or feeling.
With a quick motion of her hand, she signaled for him to be quiet.
Examples
The planet is in constant motion around the sun.
The board members voted on the motion to increase the budget.
He made a sudden motion to grab the falling glass.
The officer motioned the driver to pull over to the curb.
Collocations & Compounds
motion picture
A sequence of images projected on a screen, giving the illusion of movement.
We went to see a motion picture last night.
motion sickness
Nausea and dizziness caused by motion, especially in a vehicle.
He took medication to prevent motion sickness on the boat.
motion detector
A device that detects movement.
The alarm system has a motion detector at the front door.
in motion
Moving or in the process of moving.
The train was already in motion when we arrived.
smooth motion
Movement that is fluid and without abrupt changes.
The robotic arm's smooth motion was impressive.
Phrasal Verbs
set in motion
To cause something to start happening or moving.
Her speech set in motion a series of important reforms.
get motion
To begin to move; to start.
The old car finally got motion after a lot of coaxing.
Idioms & Sayings
motion of the sea
The movement of waves and tides.
The sailor was used to the motion of the sea.
out of motion
Not moving; stationary.
The car was stuck in traffic, completely out of motion.
Etymology
The word 'motion' comes from the Latin word 'motio', meaning 'a moving, a moving of the body, a movement'. It entered English in the 14th century, initially referring to the act of moving or changing place. Over time, its meaning expanded to include physical movement, the act of proposing something in a formal setting (like a meeting), and even bodily functions.