Shift Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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shift

[ʃɪft ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

change position

To move or cause to move from one place or position to another.

Synonyms

move, relocate, transfer.

Examples of usage

  • The wind shifted and the sails filled with air.
  • She shifted the vase to the other side of the table.
Context #2 | Noun

change in direction

A change or deviation in direction, position, or tendency.

Synonyms

adjustment, change, transition.

Examples of usage

  • There was a shift in the company's marketing strategy.
  • The shift in public opinion was evident after the scandal.

Translations

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Origin of 'shift'

The word 'shift' originated from the Old English word 'sciftan', meaning 'to arrange'. Over time, its meaning evolved to include the idea of changing position or direction. The word has been in use for centuries and is commonly used in various contexts to indicate movement, change, or adjustment.


See also: shiftiness, shifting, shiftingly, shifts, shifty.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,121, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.