Meaning 1
To lift something toward a higher position.
Reach for it when Using an elevated or old-fashioned verb for physical raising.
Together the crew upraised the timber frame onto its supports.
Meaning 2
To honor, encourage, or elevate a person or cause.
Reach for it when Describing praise or support that raises dignity and standing.
The closing poem upraised the quiet courage of family carers.
| Meaning 1 | Meaning 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| everyday | ||
| warm | ||
| professional | ||
| formal | ||
| literary |
|
|
everyday
Fits when plain physical upward movement is intended
Not when does not carry upraise's ceremonial tone
professional
hoist
Fits when ropes or machinery lift a heavy object
Not for praise or moral elevation
professional
raise
Fits when a neutral verb fits practical instruction
Not when can mean increase rather than physically lift
everyday
Fits when achievement receives open positive recognition
Not when does not imply raising status
warm
Fits when hope, dignity, or spirits are improved
Not when less focused on public honor or rank
formal
Fits when honor is raised in solemn language
Not when can imply excessive or religious veneration
upraise the beam
Six hands upraised the beam while the braces were fixed.
upraise a voice
The anthem upraised every voice in the small hall.
upraise the humble
Her stories upraise the humble without turning hardship into spectacle.
Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Updated
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