Boost vs heighten vs lift
 

In the following multiple-choice exercise:
The mailing list has done much to ... the numbers of people attending.
A lift B encourage C heighten D boost
I know the correct answer is "boost" but I was wondering what makes "lift" and "heighten" incorrect, as they also mean "increase". Thank you

Re: Boost vs heighten vs lift
 

Hello...

You are correct, all of these words are very similar in meaning but in this case, we boost numbers. (Try to think of it as a fixed expression).

As for the other words...

Lift is a more physical action. Like to lift my arm or to lift a sofa.

Highten refers to increasing the hight of something, also in a physical way. If you use it without an object as well (eg...the tension heightened as more people entered the room).

I hope that helps!
Diana