bust a move

English

Etymology

Ellipsis of bust out a move (“break out a move”), in reference to unveiling or demonstrating a move from one's repertoire of dance moves. The original usage of this phrase is "to dance." The term appeared in the 1986 song “Posse in Effect” by Beastie Boys, in which M.C.A. said “Pay attention, my intention is to bust a move.” It was then popularized in the 1989 single of the same name by rapper Young MC, who tells (in the song) of his several attempts to find (or seduce) a woman in various places and failing to be able to do so because he can't dance; he isn't able to "bust a move."

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /ˈbʌst ə ˈmuːv/

• Audio (General Australian):

  (file)

• Rhymes: -uːv

Verb

bust a move (third-person singular simple present busts a move, present participle busting a move, simple past and past participle busted a move or bust a move)

1. (African-American Vernacular, idiomatic, transitive) To dance.

   Synonym: cut a rug

   Damn, see that guy on the dance floor? He can bust a move!

2. (African-American Vernacular, idiomatic, transitive) To initiate an action, such as a departure, attack, etc.

   Synonyms: get in gear, hit the road, make a move

   It's time to go. Let's bust a move.

   What you looking at me like that for? C'mon man, bust a move if you're feeling froggy.