weightlifting: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1Formal, Technical, Journalistic
Quick answer
What does “weightlifting” mean?
The sport or activity of lifting barbells or other heavy weights in a controlled manner.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The sport or activity of lifting barbells or other heavy weights in a controlled manner.
The act or practice of lifting heavy objects, typically for physical exercise or competition, encompassing specific disciplines like Olympic weightlifting (snatch and clean & jerk) and powerlifting.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Spelling is consistent. The verb form 'to weightlift' is rare; 'to lift weights' is preferred in both varieties. The term 'weight training' is more common in general fitness contexts in both.
Connotations
In both varieties, strongly associated with strength sports, gym culture, and the Olympics. No significant difference in connotation.
Frequency
Comparable frequency. Slightly more likely in US media due to larger commercial fitness industry coverage.
Grammar
How to Use “weightlifting” in a Sentence
[Subject] does/practises weightlifting.[Subject] took up weightlifting.Weightlifting is good for [noun].She trains in weightlifting.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “weightlifting” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- He has been weightlifting for years to build strength.
- She decided to take up weightlifting seriously.
American English
- He started weightlifting in high school for football.
- She weightlifts four times a week as part of her regimen.
adverb
British English
- (Not standard; 'weightlifting' is not used as an adverb. Use 'while weightlifting' or 'during weightlifting'.)
American English
- (Not standard; 'weightlifting' is not used as an adverb. Use 'while weightlifting' or 'during weightlifting'.)
adjective
British English
- He bought new weightlifting shoes for competition.
- The weightlifting community celebrated the new record.
American English
- She follows a strict weightlifting program.
- He suffered a weightlifting injury to his shoulder.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Referring to the fitness industry, gym equipment sales, or sponsorship of athletes.
Academic
In sports science, physiology, or kinesiology papers discussing strength, muscle hypertrophy, or training methodologies.
Everyday
Discussing hobbies, gym routines, or watching the Olympics.
Technical
Precise description of snatch/clean & jerk techniques, programming (sets/reps/load), or biomechanical analysis.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “weightlifting”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “weightlifting”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “weightlifting”
- Using it as a countable noun (*'I do three weightliftings a week' - incorrect). Correct: 'I do weightlifting three times a week.'
- Confusing 'weightlifting' (Olympic sport) with 'powerlifting' (squat, bench press, deadlift) or general 'weight training'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Weightlifting is a strength sport focused on lifting maximal weight. Bodybuilding focuses on muscle size, symmetry, and aesthetics, often using weight training as a tool.
It is grammatically possible but uncommon ('I weightlift'). The natural phrase is 'I lift weights' or 'I do weightlifting'.
Olympic Weightlifting consists of the snatch and the clean & jerk. Powerlifting consists of the squat, bench press, and deadlift. They are different competitive sports.
For basic training, access to barbells, weight plates, and a safe space is essential. For Olympic weightlifting, specialised shoes and a proper platform are highly recommended as you advance.
The sport or activity of lifting barbells or other heavy weights in a controlled manner.
Weightlifting is usually formal, technical, journalistic in register.
Weightlifting: in British English it is pronounced /ˈweɪtlɪftɪŋ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈweɪtˌlɪftɪŋ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Pump iron (colloquial synonym for lifting weights)”
- “No pain, no gain (associated philosophy)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of LIFTING a WEIGHT. The word is a simple compound of its two components.
Conceptual Metaphor
STRENGTH IS UP / ACHIEVEMENT IS UP (lifting a weight upwards symbolizes increasing strength and overcoming challenges).
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is a specific discipline within weightlifting?