to move or cause something to move from one position or direction to another, a period of work in a particular place, usually lasting for several hours at a time, a slight change in position, direction, or tendency

make shift, shift into high gear, shift the blame

shift gears, graveyard shift, shift for oneself

Formal and Informal Expressions of shift

In different contexts, you can replace 'shift' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'alteration, adjustment' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'change, switch' is a commonplace synonym.

shift: Explore its Definition & Usage

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

Antonyms for shift

Idioms Using shift

make shift
to use whatever is available as a temporary solution
Example
They didn't have a ladder, so they had to make shift with a stack of boxes.
shift into high gear
to start working harder or more efficiently
Example
With the deadline approaching, we need to shift into high gear and get this project done.
shift the blame
to avoid taking responsibility by blaming someone else
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.
graveyard shift
a work shift that runs through the late night and early morning hours
Example
He works the graveyard shift at the hospital, so he sleeps during the day.
shift for oneself
to take care of oneself without help from others
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'

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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.