Lifting: meaning, definitions and examples

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lifting

 

[ ˈlɪftɪŋ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

weightlifting

The action or process of lifting something heavy, typically using the hands and arms.

Synonyms

elevating, heaving, hoisting, raising.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
lifting

This word is generally used when talking about picking up or raising something from a lower to a higher position, often using physical strength. It is the most common term and can refer to many different contexts, such as lifting weights or lifting a box.

  • He started lifting weights to build muscle.
  • They are lifting the boxes onto the truck.
raising

Raising is a general term that can apply to lifting something up but also has broader uses, such as increasing levels, promoting a cause, or bringing up a topic. It is more versatile and can be both literal and figurative.

  • They are raising the bar for quality in this industry.
  • She is raising her hand to ask a question.
hoisting

Hoisting involves using mechanical help or significant effort to raise something, commonly used for large or heavy objects. It often implies using ropes, pulleys, or machinery.

  • The workers are hoisting the flag up the pole.
  • They used a crane for hoisting the steel beams into place.
heaving

Heaving suggests lifting something heavy with a lot of effort, often in a rough or laborious manner. It can have a somewhat negative connotation, implying that the task is strenuous or unpleasant.

  • He was heaving the bulky furniture up the stairs.
  • She was heaving bags of soil into the garden.
elevating

This word implies raising something to a higher position or level, often used in a more metaphorical or technical sense. It can be used in contexts such as improving status, mood, or position in a very specific way.

  • The new policy is aimed at elevating the quality of education.
  • Meditation is known for elevating mood and reducing stress.

Examples of usage

  • He was training hard to improve his lifting technique.
  • She won a gold medal in weightlifting for her exceptional lifting abilities.
Context #2 | Noun

lifting someone's spirits

The act of making someone feel happier or more hopeful.

Synonyms

brightening, cheering up, encouraging.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
lifting

Often used when talking about physical actions involving moving something upwards or raising spirits or mood.

  • The heavy weight was lifting off the ground.
  • Her kind words were lifting my spirits.
cheering up

Used in situations where making someone feel happier or more encouraged is the goal. Frequently used for giving emotional support.

  • He brought flowers to cheer her up.
  • Watching that comedy really cheered me up.
brightening

Commonly used when referring to making something lighter or more cheerful, often in relation to light or mood.

  • The sun brightening the room.
  • Her presence was brightening up the day.
encouraging

Utilized when giving support, confidence, or hope to someone. The focus is often on motivation and positive reinforcement.

  • Her words were very encouraging.
  • The coach kept encouraging the team.

Examples of usage

  • Her kind words really did the trick in lifting his spirits.
  • Spending time with friends can be a great way of lifting your spirits.
Context #3 | Noun

lifting a ban

The act of removing or ending a ban or restriction.

Synonyms

abolishment, removal, revocation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
lifting

Used when a restriction, ban, or rule is being officially ended or cancelled.

  • The lifting of the curfew allowed people to go out at night again
  • The lifting of sanctions improved trade relations between the countries
removal

Used when something is taken away or eliminated, often referring to physical objects or abstract concepts.

  • The removal of the statue caused a lot of public debate
  • They are working on the removal of outdated regulations
abolishment

Used when something, typically a system, practice, or institution, is completely done away with. It has a formal tone.

  • The abolishment of slavery was a major step towards equality
  • The government announced the abolishment of the old tax system
revocation

Used when an official decision, law, or agreement is cancelled or withdrawn. It often has a formal and legal connotation.

  • The revocation of his license meant he could no longer practice law
  • The revocation of the agreement left both parties unhappy

Examples of usage

  • There was great celebration after the government announced the lifting of the ban.
  • The lifting of the ban allowed the community to resume normal activities.

Translations

Translations of the word "lifting" in other languages:

🇵🇹 levantamento

🇮🇳 उठाना

🇩🇪 Heben

🇮🇩 mengangkat

🇺🇦 підйом

🇵🇱 podnoszenie

🇯🇵 リフティング

🇫🇷 levage

🇪🇸 levantamiento

🇹🇷 kaldırma

🇰🇷 들기

🇸🇦 رفع

🇨🇿 zvedání

🇸🇰 zdvíhanie

🇨🇳 举重

🇸🇮 dviganje

🇮🇸 lyfting

🇰🇿 көтеру

🇬🇪 წამოწევა

🇦🇿 qaldırma

🇲🇽 levantamiento

Etymology

The word 'lifting' originated from the Old English word 'lyft', meaning 'the sky' or 'air'. Over time, it evolved to also mean the action of raising something heavy or making someone feel better. The term has been used in various contexts, from weightlifting to lifting spirits, demonstrating its versatility and adaptability in the English language.

See also: lift, lifted, uplift.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,055 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.