Lift

To move something upward from a lower position.

Reach for it when describing physical raising or carrying

The adjustable platform can lift the chair without tilting it.

• playful

  pick up

  casual speech suits taking an object from a surface

  not when Pick up also means collect or learn and can be ambiguous.

• everyday

  raise

  the most direct neutral verb for upward movement fits

  not when Raise can increase a level or amount without physically lifting an object.

• professional

  hoist

  ropes or machinery pull a heavy object upward

  not when Hoist is too forceful for gently lifting a child or cup.

• formal

  elevate

  technical height adjustment or figurative status is meant

  not when Elevate sounds clinical or grand in ordinary physical action.

To improve a mood, burden, restriction, or difficult condition.

Reach for it when describing practical or emotional relief

A familiar song seemed to lift everyone's spirits after the delay.

• everyday

  revive

  energy or activity returns after decline

  not when Revive is too strong for a small improvement in mood.

• warm

  cheer

  someone's mood specifically becomes happier

  not when Cheer does not address a practical burden or formal restriction.

• professional

  ease

  pain, pressure, or difficulty is reduced

  not when Ease may lessen a problem without creating the upward emotional movement of lift.

• literary

  inspire

  hope or purposeful action is awakened

  not when Inspire adds motivation that a simple comfort may not create.

• lower
• drop
• depress

• lift a load

  The small crane can lift a load of two tonnes.

• lift spirits

  Fresh flowers helped lift spirits in the recovery ward.

• lift a restriction

  Officials will lift a restriction once the water tests pass.