nowt000
Could we move along In the movie Matrix Reloaded (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_CChqhdN12Q&t=18s), one of the twins says to the other, "Could we move along?" The explanation in dictionaries doesn't work here. (to leave a place when someone in authority tells you to) What's meant by it here?
Apr 6, 2018 4:30 PM
Answers · 5
The phrase 'could we move along' can have different meanings depending on the context and tone of voice. One possible meaning is to ask for permission or suggest politely to go somewhere else or do something else1 2. For example, 'Could we move along to the next topic?' means 'Can we please talk about something else?' Another possible meaning is to express impatience or frustration with someone or something that is slowing down the progress or action3. For example, 'Could we move along here?' means 'Can we please hurry up?' In the movie scene you mentioned, the twin who says 'could we move along' is using the second meaning. He is annoyed that his brother is taking too long to kill Morpheus and Trinity, and he wants him to finish quickly so they can escape.
March 22, 2023
It depends on the situation - in some instances it can be taken as sarcastic like in the movie or in other instances it could just be that you are asking somebody to move along in a queue or move along onto the next piece of work. Hope that helps.
April 6, 2018
@Alison Can I use it in everyday speech to ask a hearer to hurry up?
April 6, 2018
His tone is sarcastic, suggesting his twin is being slow to help him whilst his arm is being shot. He means can you hurry up please.
April 6, 2018
It's a polite request to keep moving. (didn't watch the clip, so maybe there's something else to it) "Could you pass me the salt, please?" "Could we find something else to do?"
April 6, 2018
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