lifts off

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lifts off" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe the action of a vehicle, such as a rocket or helicopter, taking off from the ground or a surface. Example: "The rocket lifts off from the launch pad, ascending into the sky with great speed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Colum McCann's new novel, "TransAtlantic," lifts off with a roar.

The New York Times - Books

Even now, at sunset, something lifts off me.

The Guardian - Books

The airplane lifts off and you sit back.

The New York Times

At the same time, the adhesive easily lifts off with minimal force and no residue.

University of California, Berkeley

Like her Gypsy Moth, the story gathers tremendous speed then simply lifts off and vanishes.

Independent

A brightly coloured pheasant lifts off from the undergrowth in front of us.

Independent

Lifts off: Oregon State University students test software written using Kinect for Windows.

MIT Technology Review

So he hooks up 400 balloons to a lawn chair and lifts off.

The New York Times

The real problem with Veals, though, is that he never lifts off the page.

The Guardian - Books

His second ball barely lifts off the pitch before dribbling through to the keeper.

The Guardian - Sport

A clean breeze lifts off the ocean and stirs the bougainvillea.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To add variety to your writing, consider using synonyms like "takes off" or "launches" to avoid repetition.

Common error

Avoid using "lifts off" in contexts where a more literal meaning of lifting something is intended. For instance, instead of "He lifts off the box", use "He lifts the box" to maintain clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "lifts off" primarily functions as a descriptor of an object, often a vehicle like a rocket or aircraft, initiating its ascent. Ludwig AI indicates its correct usage in describing such upward movement. Examples show it being applied to stories, pheasants, and even cleaning machines.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Science

14%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrasal verb "lifts off" is a versatile term primarily used to describe the initiation of upward movement, particularly by vehicles such as rockets or aircraft. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, indicating that it also extends metaphorically to the commencement of projects or the rise of abstract concepts. Predominantly found in News & Media, it maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse contexts. For alternatives, consider "takes off" or "ascends". Ensure it's not confused with literal lifting actions to avoid misapplication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

takes off

This is the most direct synonym, simply replacing "lifts" with "takes".

ascends

Focuses on the upward movement aspect of lifting off.

departs

Highlights the act of leaving a place or starting a journey.

becomes airborne

Emphasizes the transition to flight or being in the air.

gets underway

Shifts the focus to the start of a process or event.

launches

Commonly used for rockets and formal beginnings.

rises

A general term for moving upward, less specific than "lifts off".

elevates

Similar to rises, but can imply a more controlled or gradual ascent.

springs up

Suggests a sudden or energetic upward movement.

is launched

Passive form emphasizing the action being done to something.

FAQs

What does it mean when something "lifts off"?

When something "lifts off", it means it rises from a surface, often referring to an aircraft or rocket beginning its flight. It can also be used metaphorically to describe the start or rise of something, like a project or career.

What is a synonym for "lifts off"?

A common synonym for "lifts off" is "takes off", which also describes the beginning of a flight or journey.

How can I use "lifts off" in a sentence?

You can use "lifts off" to describe a plane or rocket beginning its ascent, such as "The space shuttle successfully lifts off." You can also use it metaphorically, such as "The new business venture lifts off next month."

Is it correct to use "lifts off" in a formal context?

Yes, "lifts off" is suitable for formal contexts, especially when describing events like space missions or the launch of significant projects. However, consider the specific audience and whether a more formal alternative like "is launched" might be more appropriate.