What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
heft
Example
I hefted the bag of groceries onto the counter. [hefted: past tense verb]
Example
The heft of the hammer made it difficult to use for long periods. [heft: noun]
lift
Example
Can you help me lift this box onto the shelf? [lift: verb]
Example
The weightlifter attempted to lift the barbell over his head. [lift: verb]
Example
We took the lift to the top floor of the building. [lift: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lift is more commonly used than heft in everyday language. Lift is a versatile word that can be used in a wide range of contexts, while heft is less common and is typically used in informal or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between heft and lift?
While heft is typically associated with a casual or technical tone, lift is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.