English Reference

Word

boost

US/ˈbust/

UK/bˈuːst/

Definitions

01to increase or improve

B1 · Intermediate

v. to help something grow, improve, or become more successful.

v. to augment, encourage, or promote the growth or progress of something. Transitive; requires a direct object such as 'confidence', 'sales', or 'morale'.

“The warm weather helped to boost ice cream sales this month.”

“The central bank's decision to lower interest rates was intended to boost consumer spending and stimulate the sluggish economy.”

02to lift physically

B2 · Upper Intermediate

v. to push someone up from below so they can reach something high.

v. to provide a physical lift or upward push to someone, typically to assist them in climbing.

“He boosted his daughter up so she could see over the tall fence.”

“The hikers had to boost each other over the rocky ledge to reach the summit before the sun went down.”

Synonyms

03to steal

C1 · Advanced Slang · Informal

v. to steal something, especially from a shop.

v. to shoplift or steal merchandise. Primarily used in informal or criminal contexts.

“He was caught trying to boost a pair of expensive headphones from the electronics store.”

“The security footage clearly showed the suspect attempting to boost several high-end watches from the display case.”

Synonyms

stealshopliftpilfer

04an improvement or help

B1 · Intermediate Countable noun

n. something that helps you feel better or makes a situation more successful.

n. an act or event that brings about an increase in power, value, or emotional state.

“Winning the first game gave the whole team a huge confidence boost.”

“The unexpected endorsement from the industry leader provided a significant boost to the startup's reputation among investors.”

Antonyms

05engine pressure

C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Engineering Technical

n. the extra power in a car engine from a turbocharger.

n. the increase in manifold pressure above atmospheric pressure in an internal combustion engine, typically via a supercharger or turbocharger.

“The driver felt the boost kick in as the car accelerated down the straight track.”

“The mechanic adjusted the wastegate to ensure the engine maintained a consistent level of boost during high-speed performance.”

Synonyms

Collocations

Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “boost” in context.

Verb

01. boost confidence

“Passing the exam on her first try really boosted her confidence.”

verb + noun

02. boost morale

“The manager organized a team dinner to boost morale after a difficult month.”

verb + noun

03. boost the economy

“The government introduced new tax cuts to boost the economy after the recession.”

verb + noun

04. significantly boost sales

“The new marketing campaign significantly boosted sales during the holiday season.”

adv + verb

Noun

05. boost to the system

“A cold shower in the morning provides a real boost to the system.”

noun + prep + noun

06. confidence boost

“Winning the award was the confidence boost he needed to start his own business.”

noun + noun

07. major boost for the industry

“The new trade agreement is a major boost for the local car industry.”

noun + prep + noun

Real-World Examples

“He says it has given him a "self-confidence boost".”
BBC News 15 Aug 2026
“A 2016 trade deal boosted Mexican avocado shipments to the U.S.”
The Conversation 29 Jul 2026
“I felt like I needed to play a bit more, to play every game, that was really important for me.” That Brighton had been aware of her for some time was a boost too.”
The Guardian 17 Aug 2026

Word family

VERB

boost(B2)

Domains

EngineeringMedicinePhysics

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Common
Level
B2 · Upper IntermediateOxford
Updated

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