held aloft

USAGE SUMMARY

"held aloft" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used to describe something that is being raised up and waved (usually with one arm) as a sign of celebration or victory. For example: The champion held the trophy aloft in triumph.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Smartphones were held aloft.

The New Yorker

Others held aloft placards demanding justice.

The New York Times

"Our country!" he said, glass held aloft.

The New York Times

He held aloft a slender book.

The New York Times

"Go already," read one sign held aloft for Mr. Mubarak.

The New York Times

In a continuous motion, he popped up, ball held aloft.

The New York Times - Sports

I held aloft a banner reading, "War: Who Profits?

The New York Times

"Pay up," said one sign held aloft at the rally.

The New York Times

Stock prices must be held aloft, even if by lies.

The New York Times

Sometimes she halted, attentively, a front paw held aloft.

The New York Times - Sports

Only then did I notice the cellphone being held aloft.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "held aloft" to create a visual image of something being celebrated, emphasized, or displayed proudly. For example, "The winning team held the trophy aloft."

Common error

Avoid using "held aloft" when describing something simply being in a high place without the connotation of deliberate raising or display. Use a phrase like "located high" or "situated above" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "held aloft" functions as a verb phrase typically used as part of the predicate in a sentence. It describes the action of raising something, often implying a deliberate or celebratory gesture. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "held aloft" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that describes the action of raising something high, often for display or celebration. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use. It’s frequently found in news and media, with a neutral to formal tone. When using this phrase, consider the context to ensure it accurately conveys the intended sense of prominence and deliberate display. While alternatives like "raised high" or "lifted up" exist, they may lack the specific nuance of ceremonial presentation often associated with "held aloft".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

raised high

Focuses on the action of lifting something to a significant height.

lifted up

Emphasizes the upward movement and elevation.

elevated

Highlights the state of being in a higher position.

hoisted up

Suggests lifting something heavy or large with effort.

supported above

Focuses on the act of providing support from below, resulting in elevation.

waved high

Specifically implies movement while raised.

displayed prominently

Highlights the act of showing something in a noticeable way at a height.

presented overhead

Implies a formal presentation of something above.

borne aloft

More formal and literary way of saying held aloft.

carried high

Focuses on the act of transporting something in an elevated position.

FAQs

How is "held aloft" typically used in a sentence?

Typically, "held aloft" describes something being raised or lifted high, often to be seen or celebrated. For example, "The flag was held aloft during the parade".

What are some alternative phrases for "held aloft"?

Alternatives include "raised high", "lifted up", or "elevated", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "holding aloft" instead of "held aloft"?

"Holding aloft" is grammatically correct, but it emphasizes the act of holding, while "held aloft" focuses on the state of being raised or displayed. Consider the context to choose the most appropriate phrase.

What is the difference between "held high" and "held aloft"?

"Held high" is a more general term for something being raised, while "held aloft" often implies a more deliberate or ceremonial raising, designed for display or celebration. While similar, "held high" may lack the same sense of purpose or display.