heavy lifting

American  

[hev-ee lif-ting] / ˈhɛv i ˈlɪf tɪŋ /

noun

Informal.

1. hard work.

   A team of researchers did the heavy lifting for the author.

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Etymology

Origin of heavy lifting

First recorded in 1930–35

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

heavy lifting

Mr. Blackwood sees these students as “the Navy SEALs of Western civilization, prepared to do the heavy lifting of regeneration. It’s a small beginning, but they go out and carry the flame with them.”

From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 30, 2026

You could argue that should place him higher, but those above him on this list have done some heavy lifting, too.

From BBC ● Oct. 27, 2026

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs are physically demanding when they require sustained exertion such as climbing, heavy lifting, standing or walking.

From MarketWatch ● Sep. 24, 2026

The Trojans managed a clunky 12-play opening drive, with King Miller doing most of the heavy lifting, but were forced to settle for a field goal.

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 19, 2026

“What’s the matter, Roycroft? Is heavy lifting beneath your pay grade?”

From "Dry" by Neal Shusterman and Jarrod Shusterman

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