1To move; to shift; to change the position of something (transitive).
重い机を三人で動かした。
We moved the heavy desk with three people.
車の位置を少し動かして駐車スペースを作った。
I moved the car a little to make a parking space.
この石はこの棒では動かせない。
You can't move this rock with this stick.
2To inspire; to rouse; to move (someone emotionally) — to have an influence on feelings or actions.
彼の演説は多くの聴衆を動かした。
His speech moved many members of the audience.
その映画は観客の心を強く動かした。
That movie strongly moved the audience's hearts.
3To change or alter something (e.g., plans or positions); to shift a state or decision.
新しい情報が入ったため、計画を動かす必要がある。
Because new information came in, we need to change the plan.
4To operate; to set in motion (a machine or device); to get something running.
コンピューターを動かす前に電源を入れてください。
Please turn on the power before operating the computer.
そのレバーで機械を動かすことができる。
You can operate the machine with that lever.
5To mobilize (troops, people); to deploy forces or initiate organized movement.
政府は緊急事態に備えて部隊を動かした。
The government deployed troops in preparation for the emergency.
6To manage or move resources (e.g., funds) — to operate or handle resources effectively.
彼は会社の資金を上手に動かしている。
He manages the company's funds skillfully.