Hoist: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to raising something, often heavy, by mechanical means or with significant effort. Common in industrial or construction settings.

• They needed a crane to hoist the heavy steel beams into place.
• The workers hoisted the flag up the pole.

Used in everyday scenarios for raising or moving something to a higher position, usually involving manual effort.

• Can you help me lift this box?
• She lifted the child onto her shoulders.

Typically used when referring to raising something to a higher position or level in a more formal or abstract sense. It can be used for physical objects or metaphorically for status or mood.

• They decided to elevate the discussion to the board of directors.
• The doctor recommended using pillows to elevate her legs.

Versatile word used for increasing the level, amount, or position of something, applicable to both concrete and abstract concepts.

• They plan to raise the prices next month.
• She raised her hand to ask a question.

Use 'hoist' when referring to lifting something heavy or using a mechanical device, like in construction or sailing.

• The workers hoisted the steel beam into place.
• They hoisted the sails to catch the wind.

Use 'raise' when bringing something up, whether it be a child, a question, or a physical object. It's often used in more abstract or formal situations.

• She raised her hand to answer the question.
• They plan to raise funds for the project.

Use 'elevate' in more formal or medical contexts, often implying raising to a higher level, status, or moral standing.

• The goal is to elevate the company's reputation.
• After the injury, they advised her to elevate her leg.

Use 'lift' for general purposes when raising something from a lower position to a higher one, often involving physical effort.

• Can you lift that box for me?
• He lifted the child onto his shoulders.

Used when referring to lifting or raising something heavy, often in construction, shipping, or rescue operations.

• The workers used a hoist to lift the steel beams to the top of the building
• The flag was hoisted up the pole for the ceremony

Specifically refers to mechanical equipment designed for lifting heavy objects, often in industrial or warehouse settings.

• Make sure the lifting gear is inspected regularly to ensure safety
• The crew used the lifting gear to move the heavy machinery into place

Refers to a system involving wheels and ropes or chains used for lifting or moving heavy objects. Commonly used in mechanical engineering, physics, and even everyday scenarios like raising a window curtain.

• They set up a pulley system to hoist the piano to the second floor
• The old well used a simple pulley system to draw water