ENGLISH
REFERENCE

lofty

adj.
C1 Advanced US //ˈɫɔfti// UK //lˈɒfti// lofty Informal

adj. describing something very high up, or an idea that is very noble and impressive. It can also describe someone who acts like they are better than others.

adj. elevated in character, spirit, or status; also refers to great physical height. Often used to describe ambitious goals or a haughty, superior social attitude.


SIMPLE

She has lofty goals for her new career.

CONTEXTUAL

The architect's lofty designs for the new cathedral were praised for their beauty but criticized for their extreme cost.

COMPLEX

While his rhetoric was filled with lofty ideals about equality and justice, his private actions often suggested a much more cynical view of human nature.

Synonyms
Origin

From Middle English lofty, lofti, lofte (“of high rank; noble; ornate”), equivalent to loft (“sky, firmament; upper room”) + -y.

Usage

Can be used both literally for physical height and figuratively for abstract concepts like ambitions or attitudes.

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