Levantar vs. alzar
The Spanish words 'levantar' and 'alzar' both translate as 'to raise, to lift (hand, object)'. However, there are subtle differences in the way these verbs are used contextually and depending on the region.
Levantar
This verb is generally used to mean 'to lift or to raise from a lower to a higher position'. It can also signify the act of standing up from a lying or sitting position.
Voy a levantar la mano para responder.
(I am going to raise my hand to answer.)
Levanta los pies del suelo cuando hagas ejercicio.
(Lift your feet off the ground when you exercise.)
Me levanto temprano para preparar el desayuno.
(I get up early to prepare breakfast.)
Alzar
The verb 'alzar' denotes an action of raising or lifting something but it is often associated with a greater effort being exerted and used in more general and figurative senses.
El niño no puede alzar la pesada bolsa de patatas.
(The child cannot lift the heavy bag of potatoes.)
El dirigente alzó la voz para hacerse escuchar entre la multitud ruidosa.
(The leader raised his voice to make himself heard among the noisy crowd.)
Se alzó en protesta contra el gobierno.
(He rose up in protest against the government.)
Summary
In summary, both 'levantar' and 'alzar' are used to describe actions of lifting or raising something in Spanish language. However, 'levantar' is generally concerned with more physical movements such as lifting a hand or body part, while 'alzar' often denotes larger acts of lifting and may be used metaphorically or in more general terms as well. The usage can also vary by region and dialect within the Spanish-speaking world.