Meaning
举起 means to physically lift or raise something upward, typically an object or body part like a hand or arm. It's a compound verb combining 举 (to lift) and 起 (up/to rise), emphasizing the upward movement. This word is commonly used for deliberate actions like raising one's hand to signal, lifting a heavy object, or holding something aloft.
Usage
Native speakers use 举起 for intentional lifting actions. It's commonly seen with body parts (举起手 'raise one's hand') or objects (举起杯子 'lift up a glass'). The word has a neutral register and is appropriate in both formal and casual contexts. When used with 手, it often indicates signaling, volunteering to answer, or making a gesture.
Examples
- 01老师问问题时，学生们都举起了手。, .When the teacher asked a question, the students all raised their hands.
- 02他举起酒杯向大家祝贺新年。.He raised his wine glass to wish everyone a Happy New Year.
Characters
Common collocations
- 举起手to raise one's hand
- 举起杯子to raise one's glass
- 高高举起to raise high
- 举起武器to raise weapons
Antonyms
Origin
举 originally depicted hands lifting something ceremonially, while 起 shows a person rising from a seated position. Together they emphasize the upward direction of the lifting action.