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'.