shift
A shift refers to a significant change in position, direction, or tendency, such as a change in policy or opinion. It also denotes a scheduled period of time during which a person works, common in industries like healthcare or manufacturing.
Examples
3 of 5I usually prefer working the day shift because it allows me to spend time with my family in the evening.
I typically like the daytime work period because I can be with my family at night.
The Chief Executive Officer noted a fundamental shift in the company's long-term objectives following the merger.
The CEO observed a basic change in the company's goals after the merger.
There's been a total shift in how we hang out now that everyone has moved away.
There has been a complete change in our social habits since everyone moved.
Antonyms
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of the 'Shift' key on your keyboard. When you press it, the function of the keys changes (shifts) from lowercase to uppercase.
Quick Quiz
The company announced a major ______ in its business strategy to focus on sustainability.
Correct!
The correct answer is: shift
Examples
I usually prefer working the day shift because it allows me to spend time with my family in the evening.
everydayI typically like the daytime work period because I can be with my family at night.
The Chief Executive Officer noted a fundamental shift in the company's long-term objectives following the merger.
formalThe CEO observed a basic change in the company's goals after the merger.
There's been a total shift in how we hang out now that everyone has moved away.
informalThere has been a complete change in our social habits since everyone moved.
Scholars have identified a paradigm shift in scientific thought regarding quantum mechanics during the early 20th century.
academicResearchers found a fundamental change in scientific perspective on quantum physics in the 1900s.
Our marketing department is recommending a shift toward social media advertising to reach a younger demographic.
businessThe marketing team suggests changing our focus to social media to attract younger customers.
Antonyms
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
shift gears
to change what you are doing or how you are doing it suddenly
work a double shift
to work two consecutive scheduled work periods
make shift
to use something as a temporary substitute
Often Confused With
A shaft is a long vertical passage or a handle, whereas a shift is a movement or a period of work.
A switch implies a complete replacement or toggle between two things, while shift often implies a movement or gradual change in direction.
Usage Notes
Use 'shift' when you want to describe a movement from one state to another or when talking about scheduled work hours. It is highly versatile, used both for physical objects and abstract ideas like public opinion.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes use 'shift' when they mean a simple 'change' that doesn't involve movement or a scheduled period; 'shift' usually implies a transition or a relocation of focus.
Memory Tip
Think of the 'Shift' key on your keyboard. When you press it, the function of the keys changes (shifts) from lowercase to uppercase.
Word Origin
Derived from the Old English 'sciftan', which meant to divide, arrange, or transfer.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In industrial and medical cultures, 'shift work' is a defining lifestyle feature, often discussed in terms of its impact on sleep and social life.
Quick Quiz
The company announced a major ______ in its business strategy to focus on sustainability.
Correct!
The correct answer is: shift
Related Grammar Rules
Related Vocabulary
Related Words
badly
A1In a way that is not good, effective, or successful. It can also be used to mean 'very much' when you want or need something a lot.
lineup
A1A lineup is a group of people or things organized in a specific order for an event or purpose. It is often used to describe players on a sports team, performers at a concert, or a list of products.
thoughtful
A1Thoughtful describes someone who is kind and thinks about the needs or feelings of others. It can also describe a person who is thinking deeply or carefully about a specific subject.
skull
A1The skull is the hard, bony structure that forms the head in humans and animals. Its main purpose is to protect the brain and support the shape of the face.
recipient
A1A recipient is a person or group that receives something, such as a letter, a gift, or an award. It is a formal way to describe the person on the receiving end of an action or object.
shy
A1Shy describes a person who feels nervous, uncomfortable, or timid around other people. It often involves a lack of confidence in social situations or a hesitation to speak and interact with strangers.
shorts
A1Shorts are a type of clothing worn on the lower part of the body that covers the hips and the tops of the legs. They are typically worn in warm weather or during physical activities like sports and exercise.
meadow
A1A meadow is a field covered with grass and often wildflowers. It is a natural area where grass is allowed to grow freely, often used for animals to graze or for people to enjoy nature.
disrupt
A1To stop something from happening in the normal way or to cause a problem that interrupts a process. It is often used when an event or a system is forced to change its usual flow.
scary
A1Something that is scary makes you feel afraid or frightened. It is often used to describe things like horror movies, monsters, or dangerous situations that cause a feeling of fear.
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