Translation guide
The English phrase 'lift up' can refer to physically raising something, elevating one's mood or spirit, or figuratively uplifting others. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
To lift an object or person upward using physical force.
The most common and general verb for lifting something up. Transitive.
I lifted up the heavy box.
A versatile verb meaning 'to raise' or 'to lift'. Often used when the direction is clear from context.
Please lift up your hand.
Same as above, but specifically emphasizes the action of lifting and holding.
He lifted the child up high.
To pull something up, like a rope or a blind. Implies a pulling motion.
I lifted up the blind.
To make someone feel happier, more hopeful, or inspired.
To cheer someone up or lift their spirits. Commonly used for emotional support.
Her words lifted me up.
Literally 'to raise one's mood'. Casual and common in daily conversation.
To encourage or uplift someone through words or actions. Slightly more formal.
Slang for 'to get hyped' or 'to lift the energy'. Used among younger people.
Let's lift up the energy at the party!
To improve the condition of people or communities, often in a moral or spiritual sense.
To elevate or uplift in a broad sense, such as raising standards or consciousness.
Education lifts people up.
To improve or uplift, often used for skills, status, or quality of life.
To lift up from a difficult situation, implying rescue or salvation. Literary nuance.
When talking about lifting someone's mood, avoid directly translating 'lift up' as 持ち上げる. That verb is only for physical lifting. Use 元気づける or 気分を上げる instead.
Listening to music lifts my mood.
友達が落ち込んでいたので励ました。
My friend was feeling down, so I lifted him up.
This program lifts up the community.
His words lifted me up from despair.