Words / C1

LOFT-ee/ˈlɒfti/

Lofty means very high (lofty ceilings) or, of ideas and tone, noble — sometimes proudly unrealistic: lofty ideals, a lofty manner. High and noble are everyday; haughty (C2 in this batch of the course) adds scorn. Loft is an attic. Do not use lofty aims as a substitute for a night-shift line.

Meaning

Very high; of ideas or tone, noble or proud, sometimes unrealistically.

Examples

• “Lofty aims in the preface do not staff a night shift.”
• “High is everyday for buildings. Noble can praise morals. Haughty is proud and cold. A loft is a room under the roof. Grand language still needs a budget cell.”

Good to know

High; also grand (sometimes smug). Everyday: high / noble. Proud cousin: haughty. Mix-up: loft (attic). Aims still need staff.

Near in meaning

high

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