it was lifted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was lifted" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an action where something was raised or removed from a position, often in a physical context. Example: "The heavy box was too much for him, but with some help, it was lifted onto the shelf."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There, it was lifted to its launch position by a hydraulic ram.

The Guardian

When it finally arrived, it was lifted triumphantly onto its new foundation — backward — with the vintage neon sign and steel facade facing away from Main Street.

The New York Times

Arabtec's share price has plunged this month, though it was lifted on June 25th by reassurances that its restructuring would cut costs, prompting a rally in the stockmarket.

The Economist

It was lifted up.

The Washington Post

(It was lifted in 1966).

The Guardian

It was lifted from Chrysler Imperials of the 1930's.

The New York Times

It was lifted off me like a weight".

The Guardian - Music

In 2013 it was lifted because of a "drugs emergency".

The Guardian

Spain's ban lasted until February, and when it was lifted banking shares initially fell.

The New York Times

But even when it was lifted in November, many stuck with online shopping.

The Economist

Emergency rule was imposed, although it was lifted as promised on March 21st.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "it was lifted" to describe the removal of a restriction or ban, ensure the context clearly indicates what was previously prohibited. For example, "The travel ban was lifted after two weeks."

Common error

Avoid using "it was lifted" when a more specific verb like "repealed", "rescinded", or "removed" would provide greater clarity, especially in formal writing. Consider whether the lifting action is literal (physical) or figurative (abstract).

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was lifted" functions as a passive voice construction, indicating that something had an action performed upon it. As Ludwig AI confirms, this usage is grammatically correct and commonly employed, describing either physical elevation or the removal of a restriction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Wiki

15%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Science

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it was lifted" is a versatile phrase widely used to describe the removal of a ban or restriction, or the physical action of raising an object. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and frequently found in diverse sources, predominantly within News & Media. To enhance clarity, consider context when selecting this expression, ensuring the reader understands whether the lifting is literal or figurative. Alternatives such as "it was removed" or "it was rescinded" may provide better precision in certain situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was raised

Focuses on the action of elevating something to a higher position.

it was elevated

Similar to 'raised' but often implies a more formal or significant increase in height or status.

it was removed

Emphasizes the act of taking something away or eliminating it.

it was rescinded

Specifically refers to the cancellation or revocation of a law, order, or agreement.

it was repealed

Used specifically for the formal removal of a law or statute.

it was abolished

Indicates the complete elimination of a system, practice, or institution.

it was overturned

Often used in a legal context to describe the reversal of a decision or judgment.

it was taken away

Highlights the act of something being physically or metaphorically removed.

it was extracted

Implies that something was carefully or forcefully pulled out or separated.

it was detached

Focuses on the action of separating something from its connection or attachment.

FAQs

How can I use "it was lifted" in a sentence?

The phrase "it was lifted" is commonly used to describe the removal of a ban, restriction, or weight. For example, "The curfew "it was lifted" after the protests subsided".

What are some alternatives to "it was lifted"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "it was removed", "it was rescinded", or "it was raised".

Is it better to say "it was lifted" or "it was raised"?

While both phrases are grammatically correct, "it was lifted" often implies a removal or cancellation, whereas "it was raised" suggests an elevation or increase. Choose the phrase that best fits the intended meaning. For example: "The ban was lifted" vs "The flag was raised".

Can "it was lifted" be used in both literal and figurative contexts?

Yes, "it was lifted" can be used in both literal (physical lifting) and figurative (removal of restrictions) contexts. However, ensure that the context is clear to avoid ambiguity. For example, "The box "it was lifted" onto the truck" (literal) vs. "The embargo "it was lifted"" (figurative).