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Shifting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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shifting

[หˆสƒษชftษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

workplace

The act of changing one's working hours, typically to accommodate personal needs or preferences.

Synonyms

adaptation, adjustment, modification.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
shifting

Shifting typically refers to a noticeable change in position, direction, or tendency. It's often used in contexts involving physical movement or changes in patterns, focus, or perspectives.

  • The tectonic plates are constantly shifting beneath our feet
  • The conversation kept shifting back to the same topic
adjustment

Adjustment refers to minor changes made to improve performance or achieve a better fit. It commonly applies to settings, behavior, or plans.

  • A small adjustment to the engine improved its performance significantly
  • She made an adjustment to her schedule to include more exercise
modification

Modification implies altering something to improve it or make it more suitable for a particular purpose. It often has a technical or practical connotation.

  • The car underwent several modifications to enhance its speed
  • This software allows for easy modification of document layout
adaptation

Adaptation is used when discussing the process of becoming suitable for a new environment or condition. It often appears in biological, societal, or technological contexts.

  • The adaptation of animals to their environment is a key concept in biology
  • Successful companies show a high level of adaptation to market changes

Examples of usage

  • Many companies offer flexible shifting to their employees.
  • She requested a shifting of her work schedule to spend more time with her family.
Context #2 | Verb

mechanics

The act of changing gears in a vehicle to increase or decrease speed.

Synonyms

changing gears, switching.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
shifting

Similar to the first usage of 'shifting' but this repetition might be avoided in favor of synonyms to prevent redundancy.

  • Shifting his stance, he prepared for the next move
  • The business is shifting its focus to online sales
changing gears

Often used in a mechanical context, especially when talking about vehicles. Can also mean making a significant change in approach or activity.

  • He quickly changed gears to speed up the car
  • We need to change gears and start thinking about the next phase of the project
switching

Used when talking about exchanging one thing for another. Applies to both physical items and abstract concepts.

  • She is switching her major from biology to chemistry
  • Can you please switch the channel?

Examples of usage

  • Remember to shifting smoothly to avoid damaging the transmission.
  • He is still learning how to shifting properly in a manual car.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Cognitive shifting is a mental process allowing individuals to switch attention between tasks, enhancing problem-solving skills.
  • Shifting perspectives can lead to increased empathy, as viewing situations from various angles helps understand othersโ€™ feelings.

Literature

  • In literature, shifting narratives can provide dynamic storytelling, allowing charactersโ€™ viewpoints and experiences to evolve.
  • Authors often use shifting timelines to create suspense and intrigue, as the plot unfolds in non-linear ways.

Technology

  • The rise of digital services requires constant shifting in strategies for businesses to adapt and stay competitive.
  • In programming, shifting bits in a binary code allows for efficient manipulation of data, critical in software development.

Pop Culture

  • In films and TV, character shifting often occurs when a protagonist changes significantly due to experiences throughout the story.
  • Trends in music or fashion can shift rapidly, reflecting cultural changes and influencing how society expresses itself.

Origin of 'shifting'

Main points about word origin

  • The word has roots in Old English 'sciftan', meaning to divide or transfer, showing its long history.
  • In Middle English, 'shiften' meant to exchange or change, which reflects its evolving usage over centuries.

The word 'shifting' originated from the Old English word 'sciftan', meaning to divide or arrange. Over time, it evolved to encompass various meanings related to change and movement. In modern usage, 'shifting' is commonly used in the context of adjusting work hours or changing gears in a vehicle.

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

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,367 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.