How can an object be pulled upward with an acceleration less than gravity?

[Bashyboy]

How is it possible for an object to be thrusted upwards with an acceleration if the upwards acceleration is in fact less than the acceleration due to gravity that acts downwards?

 

[Doc Al]

It is forces that act on objects, not accelerations. If the net force on the object is upward, it will have an upward acceleration.

 

[HallsofIvy]

If the upward force, F, is greater that the downward force due to gravity, mg, then the upward acceleration will be F/m- g, which will be positive. That net acceleration can be close to 0, less than g. Perhaps that is what is confusing you.