Which phrase is used to begin a motion in a meeting?

Which phrase is used to begin a motion in a meeting?

• A. I move that...
• B. Let us decide
• C. I propose that
• D. We should move

Answer: (A)

In formal meeting practice, motions begin with a clear, standardized phrase that signals you want to bring a proposal before the group. The usual starter is “I move that…,” because it explicitly shows you intend to place a specific action or decision on the floor for consideration. This wording also triggers the formal sequence: another member typically seconds the motion, then the group can debate and finally vote. The other options don’t fit this formal process: “Let us decide” sounds more like a directive than a formal motion; “I propose that” is close in meaning but not the traditional procedural language used to initiate a motion; and “We should move” expresses an opinion rather than the formal act of bringing a motion to the floor.

In formal meeting practice, motions begin with a clear, standardized phrase that signals you want to bring a proposal before the group. The usual starter is “I move that…,” because it explicitly shows you intend to place a specific action or decision on the floor for consideration. This wording also triggers the formal sequence: another member typically seconds the motion, then the group can debate and finally vote. The other options don’t fit this formal process: “Let us decide” sounds more like a directive than a formal motion; “I propose that” is close in meaning but not the traditional procedural language used to initiate a motion; and “We should move” expresses an opinion rather than the formal act of bringing a motion to the floor.