budge: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1neutral
Quick answer
What does “budge” mean?
to move or cause to move slightly.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
to move or cause to move slightly; to change an attitude or position, especially one that is firmly held.
To shift from a fixed position, physically or metaphorically; to yield or compromise on a previously firm stance.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in core meaning. Slightly more frequent in American English in political/journalistic contexts regarding policy shifts.
Connotations
In both varieties, carries a connotation of initial resistance. Can imply grudging movement.
Frequency
Moderate frequency in both; common in figurative use.
Grammar
How to Use “budge” in a Sentence
[NP] won't budge[NP] budged [on/from NP][NP] budged [NP]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “budge” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The Prime Minister refused to budge on the contentious clause.
- This rock is too heavy; I can't budge it.
American English
- The Senator wouldn't budge from her demands.
- See if you can budge that sofa to the left.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in negotiations: 'The seller won't budge on the price.'
Academic
Used in arguments or theoretical positions: 'The historian's interpretation didn't budge despite new evidence.'
Everyday
Used for physical objects or opinions: 'I can't budge this jar lid.' / 'Mum won't budge on my curfew.'
Technical
Rare; may be used in physics/engineering for minimal displacement.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “budge”
- Using 'budge' for willing or easy movement (e.g., 'He budged gracefully' is odd).
- Misspelling as 'budge' when meaning 'budget'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. 'Budge' typically implies a small, difficult, or reluctant movement, often after resistance.
It can be both. Intransitive: 'He won't budge.' Transitive: 'I can't budge this lever.'
The negative pattern is most frequent: 'won't/can't/didn't budge'.
No, 'budge' is only a verb. The related concept is 'movement' or 'shift'.
to move or cause to move slightly.
Budge is usually neutral in register.
Budge: in British English it is pronounced /bʌdʒ/, and in American English it is pronounced /bʌdʒ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “not budge an inch”
- “budge over”
- “wouldn't budge for love nor money”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a judge who is stubborn and REFUSES TO BUDGE from their verdict. Judge -> Budge.
Conceptual Metaphor
STUBBORNNESS IS PHYSICAL IMMOBILITY (e.g., 'He's rooted to his opinion').
Practice
Quiz
Which sentence uses 'budge' CORRECTLY?