What is motion? Pronunciation and usage in English

motion means . Learn how to pronounce and use motion through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of motion

motionnoun

/ˈməʊʃn/
Definition & pronunciation of motion

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "motion" in English. Here's a breakdown and some tips:

The most common and accepted pronunciation is:

  • /ˈmoʊʃən/ (This is phonetic spelling - a guide to the sounds)

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  1. mo-: This sounds like "mo" as in "mother" but very slightly shorter and less emphasized. It’s a quick, almost unstressed sound.

  2. -tion: This is the trickier part. It sounds like "shun." Think of the word "sun." The "t" is silent.

Putting it together:

You’re essentially saying “mo-shun.”

Tips for getting it right:

  • Stress: The emphasis is on the first syllable ("mo").
  • The "tion" sound: Really focus on making that "shun" sound. Practice saying "sun" and then adding a short "mo" sound in front of it.
  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it! Here are some resources:
    • Google Search: Search for "how to pronounce motion" on Google. You'll find audio examples from Merriam-Webster, Cambridge Dictionary, and other reliable sources.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/motion/ (This website has pronunciations from native speakers.)
    • YouTube: Search for "pronouncing motion" on YouTube.

Would you like me to:

  • Record myself saying “motion”?
  • Give you some more practice words to pronounce with similar sounds?

Usage and examples with the word motion in English

Let's break down how to use the word "motion" in English. It has several different meanings and uses! Here's a breakdown categorized for clarity:

1. Movement (Most Common)

  • Basic meaning: This is the core definition – the act of moving.
    • “The leaves made a rustling motion in the wind.”
    • “She felt a slight motion as the train started.”
    • “He made a quick motion with his hand to dismiss her.”

2. Formal Proposal/Suggestion (Specifically in Meetings & Governance)

  • In meetings and official settings: “Motion” refers to a formal proposal put forward for discussion and a vote. This is the most commonly recognized use in politics, businesses, and organizations.
    • “Mr. Smith moved to adjourn the meeting.” (He proposed to end the meeting.)
    • “The board passed a motion to increase the budget.” (They officially approved a funding increase.)
    • “I second the motion.” (Someone else agrees with the proposal.)
    • Key phrases: to move, second, vote, passed a motion, table the motion (to postpone it).

3. Legal Motion (Court Context)

  • Legal Procedure: In a legal context, "motion" refers to a formal request made to the court for a specific order or ruling.
    • “The defense filed a motion to suppress the evidence.” (They asked the court to exclude the evidence.)
    • “The judge granted the motion for a continuance.” (The judge allowed the trial to be postponed.)

4. General Sense of Activity or Trend

  • Figurative use: “Motion” can sometimes describe a general tendency or inclination. It's less common but can be useful.
    • “There was a sense of motion in the crowd as they began to disperse.” (Meaning movement, but also a feeling of change.)
    • “The economy is showing signs of motion – a slight increase in growth.” (Referring to development or progress.)

5. Motion Sickness

  • Medical term: "Motion sickness" is a specific condition where you feel unwell due to conflicting signals from your senses about movement.
    • “I get motion sickness on long car rides.”

Tips for Using "Motion" Correctly:

  • Context is Key: The meaning of "motion" changes drastically based on the context.
  • Formal vs. Informal: “Motion” is much more prevalent in formal settings (meetings, legal documents) than in everyday, casual conversation.
  • Related Words: Understanding words like "movement," "shift," "change," "proposal," and "request" will help you grasp the nuances of "motion."

Resources for Further Learning:

To help me give you even more tailored guidance, could you tell me:

  • In what context are you trying to use the word "motion"? (e.g., writing a report, giving a presentation, having a conversation, reading a legal document?)

Synonyms for the word motion

Idioms of the word motion

go through the motions (of doing something)
to do or say something because you have to, not because you really want to
    set/put something in motion
    (figurative)to start something moving
    • They set the machinery in motion.
    • The wheels of change have been set in motion.
    • He wound the key and set the toy in motion.

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