A2verb1K

Lift

UK /["/lɪft/","/lɪfts/","/ˈlɪftɪd/","/ˈlɪftɪŋ/"]/US /["/lɪft/","/lɪfts/","/ˈlɪftɪd/","/ˈlɪftɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to raise somebody/something or be raised to a higher position or level

In simple words: To raise something to a higher position.

Examples

  • Please help me lift this heavy box.
  • I can lift weights at the gym three times a week.
  • He decided to lift his spirits by going out with friends.
  • The elevator will lift you to the fifth floor.
  • She tried to lift the mood of the party with some music.

Usage notes

Use 'lift' when you want to describe raising something physically or metaphorically. It is suitable in most contexts but avoid using it in very formal writing where 'elevate' might be more appropriate.

Grammar pattern

lift + object

Memory hint

Think of a 'lift' as an elevator going up - both are about raising things higher.

Collocations

  • almost
  • half
  • fractionally
  • can barely
  • can hardly
  • try to
  • above
  • down
  • from
  • almost
  • half
  • fractionally
  • can barely
  • can hardly
  • try to
  • above
  • down
  • from
  • completely
  • partially
  • agree to
  • decide to
  • vote to

Synonyms

  • disperse

Antonyms

  • drop
  • lower
  • diminish

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'raise' — remember 'lift' is for physical action.
  • Using 'lift up' unnecessarily — just 'lift' is often enough.
  • Mixing up past forms — 'lifted' not 'lofted'.