if the spirit moves (one)

if the spirit moves (one)

If one feels compelled to do something. Laura's grades are so bad because she only comes to class if the spirit moves her. I usually stay home on weekends, but I'll go out if the spirit moves me. A: "Could you please wash the dishes tonight?" B: "Maybe. If the spirit moves me."

See also: if, move, spirit

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

(do something) as/if/when the spirit ˈmoves you

(do something) when you want to, rather than when you have to or are forced to: She works in the garden occasionally, when the spirit moves her.

See also: if, move, spirit

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017