Distinguishing Between Rise & Arise

Rise vs Arise

There are numerous words derived from the verb “rise” that can cause confusion for English language learners. Some of these words include arise, raise, rose, risen, and rising. Among these, the pair “rise” and “arise” tend to create the most confusion due to their similar meanings. This article aims to clarify the differences between these two words.

Key Takeaways

• Arise is used to talk about situations, while rise is used for things that move up or higher.
• Arise means to get up or awaken, while rise pertains to anything moving from a lower to a higher level.
• To take shape or come into existence is to arise, as in “new problems arise every day,” while “sun rises in the east” is an example of the word rise.

Rise is a word that means to ascend. It is a verb that is applied mostly in cases of things or individuals moving from a lower to a higher level. A rising thing or person is moving upwards. Consider the following examples:

• The sun rises in the east.
• I rise early in the morning to catch the train.
• The sound from the music concert was rising in pitch.
• The hot air balloon is rising up in the sky.

It’s important to note that “raise” is not the same as “rise.” You raise your hand and do not rise it. Similarly, you get a raise in salary and not a rise. Also, you can raise your hand or even children but not rise them.

Arise is an irregular verb that is used to talk about situations such as opportunities, problems, needs, etc. Take a look at the following examples:

• I want you to be here if the need arises.
• Hopes arise in the gloomiest of situations.
• Do not be despondent as opportunities can arise any moment.
• He promised his help if the need arose.
• The question of military takeover does not arise.

From these examples, it becomes clear that “arise” means to come into existence or take shape.