Lofty is an adjective used to describe something that is elevated in height or status, but it can also refer to attitudes, goals, or ideas that are grand, noble, or idealistic in nature. It is often used to convey a sense of grandeur or aspiration, but it can sometimes have a negative connotation, implying that something is overly ambitious, impractical, or even arrogant. The word is typically associated with physical height (like lofty mountains or buildings) as well as metaphorical heights (such as lofty goals or lofty ideas). In Indonesian, lofty can be translated as “tinggi,” “mulia,” or “angkuh,” depending on the context.
Some synonyms for lofty include: elevated, high, noble, grand, majestic, exalted, sublime, ambitious, idealistic, and arrogant (in a negative context).
Example Sentences Using Lofty:
- The lofty mountain peaks were covered in snow, creating a breathtaking view.
- She set lofty goals for herself, hoping to make a significant impact in the world of science.
- His lofty ideals about justice were admirable but seemed difficult to achieve in practice.
- The lofty tower stood above the city, a symbol of wealth and power.
- The company’s lofty ambition to become the market leader in just a few years was met with skepticism.
- His lofty speech about environmental conservation inspired many, even though some thought it was overly optimistic.
- The lofty ambitions of the young artist were evident in his groundbreaking exhibition.
- As they reached the lofty heights of success, they began to lose touch with their humble beginnings.
- She had a lofty sense of morality, always striving to do what was right, even when it wasn’t easy.
- The lofty ideals of the revolution promised equality, but they were hard to translate into reality.
Related Words:
- Elevated
- High
- Grand
- Noble
- Exalted
- Sublime
- Majestic
- Ambitious
- Idealistic
- Arrogant
Phrasal Verbs Related to Lofty:
- Look up to (to admire someone for their lofty achievements or ideals)
- Reach for (to aim for something lofty, such as a high goal or dream)
- Live up to (to fulfill or achieve the lofty expectations or standards set by others)
- Set out to (to begin pursuing a lofty goal or ambition)
- Rise above (to transcend challenges and maintain a lofty position or attitude)
Idiomatic Expressions Related to Lofty:
- On a pedestal (to view or treat someone or something with lofty admiration, sometimes unrealistically)
- Reach for the stars (to set lofty or extremely ambitious goals)
- Aim high (to strive for lofty ambitions or great achievements)
- Have one’s head in the clouds (to be overly idealistic or have lofty but impractical dreams)
- In the clouds (to be overly optimistic or detached from reality, often in reference to lofty ideas)
The word lofty is often used to describe things that are high in both a literal and figurative sense. It evokes grandeur, elevation, and sometimes ambition. While it can be used positively to describe noble causes or high achievements, it can also hint at impracticality or arrogance when used in the context of unattainable goals or excessive pride. Whether used for mountains, ideals, or people, lofty adds a sense of scale, aspiration, or even unattainability.
