a purpose-built

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a purpose-built" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that has been specifically designed or constructed for a particular purpose or function. Example: "The new software is a purpose-built solution for managing large datasets efficiently."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Neither is a purpose-built detention centre.

The Guardian

It's a purpose-built plug-in hybrid.

MIT Technology Review

In September a purpose-built arena will open in Leeds.

The Economist

Every commodity seems to provoke a purpose-built protest movement.

The Economist

"It really is a purpose-built den of iniquity".

The New York Times

Alligators invade a purpose-built "paradise" in Florida.

The Guardian - Books

In contrast, Ocado operates a purpose-built central warehouse.

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Facilities A purpose built library provides material to support the courses taught.

The Guardian

This time, though, it was into a purpose built venue near Piccadilly Circus.

The Guardian

Other ideas include a redesigned interactive website and a purpose built App.

BBC

In 2018 it is adding a purpose built luxury vessel the Quark World Explorer.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a purpose-built" to clearly indicate that something was designed and constructed with a specific function in mind. This adds precision to your writing, especially in technical or descriptive contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "a purpose-built" when simpler adjectives like "special" or "specific" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound overly formal or pretentious in casual contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a purpose-built" primarily functions as a compound adjective. It modifies a noun to indicate that the noun has been specifically designed and constructed for a particular purpose. Ludwig AI indicates that this is a grammatically correct construction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

27%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a purpose-built" is a common and grammatically correct adjective phrase used to describe something specifically designed and constructed for a particular function. Analysis of examples demonstrates its widespread usage across News & Media, Science, and Academia, Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. While versatile, it’s best used when you want to emphasize the intentionality and specialization behind an object's creation. Alternatives include "custom-designed" or "specifically designed", offering slight nuances in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Specifically designed

Highlights the intent behind the design, emphasizing the deliberate nature of the creation.

Specially constructed

Highlights the construction process with an emphasis on the special nature of the build.

Custom-built

Emphasizes the construction aspect, implying a unique creation based on specific requirements.

Custom-designed

Focuses on the individual tailoring of the design, emphasizing uniqueness.

Tailor-made

Implies a close fit to particular needs, often associated with bespoke solutions.

Bespoke

A more formal term implying high degree of customization and craftsmanship.

Made to order

Focuses on the act of creating something according to a customer's specifications.

Dedicated

Emphasizes the single-minded focus of the design, suggesting it serves only one purpose.

Fit for purpose

Highlights the suitability and effectiveness of the design for its intended use.

Engineered

Focuses on the technical and precise aspects of the design and construction.

FAQs

How do you use "a purpose-built" in a sentence?

The phrase "a purpose-built" is used to describe something that has been specifically designed and constructed for a particular function. For example: "The laboratory features "a purpose-built" clean room for sensitive experiments."

What can I say instead of "a purpose-built"?

You can use alternatives like "custom-designed", "specifically designed", or "tailor-made" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "a purpose-built" or "specially designed"?

Both "a purpose-built" and "specially designed" are correct, but they emphasize different aspects. "A purpose-built" highlights that something was constructed for a particular reason, while "specially designed" emphasizes the design aspect. The best choice depends on the specific context.

What is the difference between "a purpose-built" and "custom-built"?

"A purpose-built" emphasizes the function for which something was created, while "custom-built" highlights the personalized nature of its construction. While similar, "custom-built" suggests more direct client involvement or individual requirements.