shift Definition
- 1to move or cause something to move from one position or direction to another
- 2a period of work in a particular place, usually lasting for several hours at a time
- 3a slight change in position, direction, or tendency
Using shift: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "shift" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
She shifted her weight from one foot to the other.
Example
He shifted the furniture around to make more space.
Example
I'm working the night shift this week.
Example
The company is going through a shift in management.
Example
There has been a shift in public opinion on the issue.
shift Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for shift
Idioms Using shift
Example
They didn't have a ladder, so they had to make shift with a stack of boxes.
Example
With the deadline approaching, we need to shift into high gear and get this project done.
Example
He tried to shift the blame onto his assistant, but everyone knew it was his mistake.
Phrases with shift
shift gears
to change one's focus or approach
Example
After the failure of their first plan, they decided to shift gears and try a different strategy.
Example
He works the graveyard shift at the hospital, so he sleeps during the day.
Example
After moving out of his parents' house, he had to learn how to shift for himself.
Origins of shift
from Old English 'sciftan', meaning 'to divide, arrange'
Summary: shift in Brief
The term 'shift' [ʃɪft] refers to movement or change, either physical or abstract. It can be used as a verb or a noun, such as 'She shifted her weight' or 'I'm working the night shift'. 'Shift' also extends into phrases like 'graveyard shift,' and idioms like 'shift into high gear,' denoting increased effort, and 'shift the blame,' implying avoidance of responsibility.