A2verb1K

Raise

UK /["/reɪz/","/ˈreɪzɪz/","/reɪzd/","/ˈreɪzɪŋ/"]/US /["/reɪz/","/ˈreɪzɪz/","/reɪzd/","/ˈreɪzɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to lift or move something to a higher level

In simple words: To lift something up or to increase something.

Examples

  • I want to raise my hand to ask a question.
  • Can you help me raise the flag?
  • They plan to raise money for charity.
  • She hopes to raise her grades this semester.
  • We need to raise awareness about climate change.

Usage notes

Use 'raise' when talking about increasing amounts, such as money or levels. It is not used for people standing up (use 'rise' instead). Suitable for both spoken and written contexts.

Grammar pattern

raise + object

Memory hint

Think of 'raise' like 'razor'—you're cutting through the air as you lift something.

Collocations

  • raise funds
  • raise awareness
  • raise a question
  • raise the stakes
  • raise your hand

Synonyms

  • broach
  • resurrect
  • cheer up

Antonyms

  • lower
  • decrease

Common mistakes

  • 'Raise' confused with 'rise' (e.g., 'I rise my hand')
  • Using 'raise' without an object (e.g., 'raise' without specifying what is raised)
  • Confusing past tense ('raised') with present tense ('raise')