Lifted: meaning, definitions and examples

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lifted

 

[ˈlɪftɪd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in a physical sense

To raise to a higher position or level; elevate. To move or bring something to a higher position. To pick up or carry (something heavy). To increase the amount, level, or force of something.

Synonyms

boost, elevate, hoist, raise, uplift.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
lifted

Used when describing the action of picking something up or moving it to a higher position. Commonly used in everyday language.

  • She lifted the box onto the table.
  • He lifted his child into the air.
raise

A versatile word used in various contexts: to increase the amount or level of something, or to lift something to a higher position.

  • She raised her hand to ask a question.
  • They raised the price of the product.
elevate

Typically used in more formal or technical contexts when talking about raising something or someone to a higher level or rank, both literally and figuratively.

  • The machine helps to elevate heavy loads.
  • She was elevated to a management position.
hoist

Used when referring to lifting something heavy, often with the help of equipment or machinery. Commonly used in construction or nautical contexts.

  • They hoisted the sail for the boat.
  • The workers hoisted the steel beam into place.
boost

Often used when referring to giving something additional support or increasing its effectiveness or value. Can be used both in physical and metaphorical contexts.

  • This vitamin will boost your energy levels.
  • The new advertisement campaign boosted sales.
uplift

Mainly used in a metaphorical sense to describe improving someone's mood, spirit or morale, though it can also mean raising something physically.

  • Listening to music helps to uplift my spirits.
  • The platform uplifted by hydraulic jacks.

Examples of usage

  • He lifted the box and carried it upstairs.
  • She lifted the weight effortlessly.
  • The new law will lift restrictions on trade.
  • The fog began to lift as the sun rose.
  • The team's spirits were lifted by the victory.
Context #2 | Verb

in a metaphorical sense

To raise or improve the mood, spirits, or morale of someone. To increase or improve something, such as a ban or restriction. To steal or plagiarize something.

Synonyms

boost, improve, inspire, uplift.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
lifted

Use 'lifted' when referring to something physically or emotionally being raised or elevated. It is often used in contexts where a burden is removed.

  • The spirits of the team were lifted after their victory
  • He lifted the heavy box effortlessly
boost

Use 'boost' when talking about giving extra energy, encouragement, or improvement to something, particularly in performance or confidence.

  • The vitamins helped boost his immune system
  • She gave a boost to the project's timeline with her hard work
uplift

Use 'uplift' when elevating someone's mood or spirit through encouragement or positive influence. It has a slightly more emotional or spiritual connotation.

  • Her songs always uplift my spirits
  • The community event was designed to uplift and support those in need
inspire

Use 'inspire' when referring to the act of stimulating someone to do or feel something, especially to create or achieve.

  • His story inspired me to pursue my dreams
  • The beautiful scenery inspired her to paint again
improve

Use 'improve' when discussing making something better or enhancing its quality over time.

  • She took a course to improve her language skills
  • The new policy aims to improve workplace efficiency

Examples of usage

  • Her kind words lifted his spirits.
  • The government decided to lift the ban on certain imports.
  • She was accused of lifting the design from another artist.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'lifted' comes from the Old English word ' Lyftan', which means 'to raise up'.
  • In Middle English, the term evolved into 'liften', which retained the meaning of elevating.
  • The word has roots in similar terms across Germanic languages, suggesting a shared concept of elevation.

Psychology

  • Feeling 'lifted' can refer to an improvement in mood or spirit, often linked to positive experiences.
  • Studies show that phrases related to being lifted can evoke feelings of happiness, contributing to mental wellbeing.
  • The sensation of being 'lifted' emotionally can also help in overcoming stress or anxiety.

Pop Culture

  • The term is often used in music and poetry to convey themes of elevation, freedom, and escape.
  • In motivational speaking, being 'lifted' is a common metaphor for personal growth and overcoming challenges.
  • Various songs use 'lifted' to depict feelings of joy or euphoria, enhancing the emotional resonance with audiences.

Science

  • In physics, 'lifting' involves overcoming gravitational force, a fundamental principle explored in mechanics.
  • The act of lifting can also refer to biological processes, such as how muscles contract to move limbs.
  • The mechanics of lifting are studied in various fields, including engineering and sports science, focusing on efficiency and technique.

Literature

  • In storytelling, being 'lifted' often symbolizes transformation or transcendence, marking character development.
  • Metaphorical usage of 'lifted' is common in literary works to depict a change in perspective or state of being.
  • Famous authors have employed the concept of lifting to describe moments of inspiration or enlightenment.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,669, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.