shift
0 antonyms and opposites of shift, grouped by meaning.
Verb — To move something from one place or position to another.
How to use shift
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old English sċiftan, meaning "to divide, arrange, or organise" — the sense narrowed over time to mean simply "to move or change."
Full origin of shift →Frequently asked questions
What does “shift” mean?
The word “shift” means to move something from one place or position to another. In plain terms, to move or change position — or, as a noun, a fixed period of work time or the keyboard key for capitals.
How do you pronounce “shift”?
“Shift” is pronounced SHIHFT (/ˈʃɪft/ in IPA).
How do you use “shift” in a sentence?
Here is “shift” used in a sentence: “She shifted the boxes to the other side of the room.”
What part of speech is “shift”?
Depending on how it is used, “shift” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “shift” come from?
The word “shift” comes from Old English. From Old English sċiftan, meaning "to divide, arrange, or organise" — the sense narrowed over time to mean simply "to move or change.".
Is “shift” a common word?
“Shift” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “shift” have?
“Shift” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to move something from one place or position to another.
What is the difference between 'shift' and 'move'?
'Move' is the general word for changing position. 'Shift' usually means a smaller or slighter change — nudging, adjusting, or repositioning something rather than transporting it far. You might move house across the country, but shift a chair a few inches. 'Shift' often suggests a partial or subtle adjustment.
Can 'shift' be used figuratively?
Yes. Beyond moving objects, 'shift' describes changes in less physical things: opinions shift, blame is shifted onto someone, and attention shifts from one topic to another. In each case the core idea remains — something changes from one position, state, or focus to another.
Is 'shift' also a noun?
Yes. As a noun, 'shift' can mean a change ('a shift in mood'), a set period of work ('the night shift'), or a key on a keyboard. All connect to the verb's core meaning of moving or changing from one state, position, or arrangement to another.
What is an example of 'shift' as a verb?
'Could you help me shift this table nearer the window?' shows the everyday sense of moving an object. Figuratively, 'the company shifted its focus to online sales' shows a change of direction. Both involve moving something from one place, position, or state to another.