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budge

v.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈbədʒ// UK //bˈʌdʒ// budge Archaic Slang

v. to move just a little bit, or to change your mind about something. You often use this word when something is stuck or when someone is being very stubborn.

v. to move slightly or cause something to move; metaphorically, to yield or change a position, opinion, or decision. Frequently occurs in negative constructions to emphasize resistance or immobility.


SIMPLE

The heavy door is stuck and will not budge.

CONTEXTUAL

Despite hours of intense negotiation, the company refused to budge on the proposed salary increase.

COMPLEX

The rusted bolt finally began to budge after I applied several layers of lubricant and used a longer wrench for better leverage.

Synonyms
Usage

The verb is often used intransitively with 'won't' or 'refused to' to show that something or someone is stubborn.

Pitfall

I tried to budge it but it didn't move.I tried to move it but it didn't budge.While 'budge' can be transitive, learners often use it where 'move' is more natural; 'budge' is best reserved for the moment something *starts* to move or for the refusal to move at all.

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