lifted my spirits

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'lifted my spirits' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe a feeling of being uplifted and encouraged, usually by some form of good news or positive event. For example, "The kind words from my family lifted my spirits and gave me a renewed sense of hope."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

"That really lifted my spirits," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

"Rudy's arrival [at Columbia] lifted my spirits.

Columbia University

A lilting voice lifted my spirits at the cash register.

The New York Times - Travel

Toward the end of a tiring week it lifted my spirits no end.

The New York Times - Arts

Our son, Sam, who lives in New Orleans, lifted my spirits with a surprise visit.

The Washington Post

From the Living Room to the Carlisle to Mougins, you always lifted my spirits.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

"Oh, you lifted my spirit!" the patient calls out.

The New York Times

Walking toward the Prison Ship Martyrs Monument, at the highest point of Fort Greene Park, lifted my spirit.

The New York Times

"He was the first one who lifted my spirit," Mr. Colon said.

The New York Times - Sports

It felt like we were all there together when I'd hear your voices, and that happy thought lifted my spirit, every day.

HuffPost

He lifted my spirit by giving me a thumbs-up through the narrow window slat of his cell door whenever the guards dragged me by.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "lifted my spirits" to describe a situation or event that caused a genuine and noticeable improvement in your mood or emotional state. This phrase is particularly effective when highlighting unexpected or welcome positive changes.

Common error

Avoid using "lifted my spirits" for minor, everyday occurrences. Reserve this phrase for moments that have a significant positive impact on your well-being, not just for routine pleasantries.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lifted my spirits" functions as an expression of positive emotional impact, indicating that something has improved one's mood or state of mind. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Academia

6%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lifted my spirits" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe a positive change in one's mood or emotional state. Ludwig confirms its widespread usage and grammatical correctness. Predominantly found in news and media, the phrase serves to convey happiness and encouragement. While versatile, it is most impactful when used to highlight significant positive moments, avoiding overuse in trivial situations. Consider alternatives like "cheered me up" or "brightened my day" for varied expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

raised my spirits

A more direct synonym, focusing on elevating one's mood.

made me feel better

General expression of improved emotional state.

cheered me up

Emphasizes a boost in mood from a state of sadness.

gave me a lift

A more concise way of saying something improved one's mood.

perked me up

Suggests a quick and noticeable improvement in energy and mood.

brightened my day

Focuses on the immediate positive effect on the day.

boosted my morale

Implies an increase in confidence and enthusiasm.

put a smile on my face

Highlights the physical manifestation of happiness.

warmed my heart

Emphasizes a feeling of affection and comfort.

gladdened my heart

Suggests a deeper, more heartfelt sense of joy.

FAQs

How can I use "lifted my spirits" in a sentence?

You can use "lifted my spirits" to describe something that made you feel happier or more encouraged. For example, "The surprise visit from my family really "lifted my spirits"."

What's a more formal alternative to "lifted my spirits"?

A more formal alternative could be "elevated my mood" or "improved my emotional state". These phrases are suitable for professional or academic contexts where a more nuanced expression is desired.

What can I say instead of "lifted my spirits" to show gratitude?

You could say "I'm grateful for how much you "cheered me up"" or "Your kindness really "brightened my day"", depending on what action or event lifted your spirits.

Is "lifted my spirits" appropriate for serious or somber situations?

While "lifted my spirits" generally denotes a positive change, it may not be suitable for very serious or somber situations. In such cases, consider alternatives like "offered some solace" or "provided a moment of respite".