hoist - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
hoist Word Meanings
- to lift something to a higher position
- to raise a flag or sail
- to elevate or promote something
hoist Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
hoist Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/hɔɪst/
US
/hɔɪst/
hoist Word Etymology
hoist = hoist (base) from Old French 'hoiste' (which comes from Latin 'surgere' meaning 'to rise'). Picture a worker using a pulley, pulling a heavy load upward with effort, symbolizing elevation.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Hoist is a verb meaning to lift something to a higher position, usually with mechanical help such as a pulley, crane, or winch. It can also mean to raise a flag or sail, and in a broader sense to elevate or promote something, though this figurative use is less common than other verbs. In everyday English you might say "hoist the flag," "hoist the sails," or "hoist a heavy load." The word implies effort and some apparatus; it often sounds more technical than simply "lift" or "raise." People sometimes confuse it with "raise," but hoist emphasizes the lifting action with equipment.
Usage Reminders
- Use hoist for lifting with machinery or pulleys.
- Use hoist for flags or sails.
- For general lifting, use lift or raise.
- Hoist the noun is the device, not the action.
- Be careful with figurative use; 'raise' or 'promote' often fits better.
Common Misconceptions
- Hoist is only about physical lifting with tools; not for raising funds or status.
- Hoist can replace raise in all contexts; it cannot.
- Hoist refers to a light or casual lift, not a heavy or mechanical action.
- Hoist is always a formal or technical term, never everyday.
- Hoist is the same as 'lift' in all situations.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Visualize a pulley or crane when you hear hoist.
- Pair hoist with flag and sail in phrases.
- Compare with lift and raise to notice nuance.
- Remember hoist can be a noun (the hoist).
- Practice past tense: hoisted (not 'hoised').
- Use collocations like hoist up the load.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'hoist'?
A.To lower or drop something
B.To raise or lift something
C.To push something sideways
D.To rotate something clockwise
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'hoist' used correctly?
A.She tried to hoist the volume of the music.
B.The flag was hoisted high on the pole.
C.He hoisted the door to open it.
D.The teacher hoisted a question to the class.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'hoist'?
A.Lower
B.Descend
C.Elevate
D.Tumble
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite meaning of 'hoist'?
A.Float
B.Drop
C.Descend
D.Collapse
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life scenario would you need to 'hoist' something?
A.Changing a lightbulb
B.Playing a musical instrument
C.Cooking a meal
D.Watering plants
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