What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
aloft
Example
The bird soared aloft, gliding effortlessly on the wind. [aloft: adverb]
Example
The flag was raised aloft on the flagpole. [aloft: adjective]
upward
Example
The rocket shot upward into the sky, leaving a trail of smoke behind. [upward: adverb]
Example
The company's profits have been steadily trending upward over the past year. [upward: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Upward is more commonly used than aloft in everyday language. Upward is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while aloft is less common and often used in more specific or literary contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between aloft and upward?
Both aloft and upward can be used in formal or informal contexts, but aloft may be perceived as more formal or literary due to its less common usage.
