are built around

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are built around" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is centered or focused on a particular idea, concept, or theme. Example: "The curriculum for the course is built around the principles of sustainability and environmental responsibility."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Theatres are built around those dreams".

The Guardian

Teams are built around certain things.

The New York Times - Sports

Finally, multilateral efforts are built around a fiction.

The New York Times

The platforms of social media are built around weak ties.

The New Yorker

But not all spa homes are built around hotels.

The New York Times - Travel

Menu items are built around fresh, seasonal ingredients.

The New York Times - Travel

Indeed, government regulations regarding bonds are built around ratings.

The New York Times

Show that your services are built around people not processes.

The Guardian

That's why all food safety programs are built around prevention".

The New York Times - Food

Of course, all of these programs are built around personalities.

The New York Times

Most recall issues are built around allergens and microbiological contamination.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are built around", ensure that the subject is clearly defined and the relationship to the core element is easily understood by the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "are built around" with overly abstract subjects where the connection to a tangible foundation is unclear. Ensure the subject has a clear, definable structure.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are built around" functions as a linking verb phrase, connecting a subject with a predicate that describes its structure or central focus. It indicates that something is designed, organized, or based on a particular element or principle. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is commonly used and grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

32%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are built around" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression used to describe something structured or centered on a specific element. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is widely applicable across various contexts, with a primary presence in news and media, as well as scientific and encyclopedic content. When writing, use this phrase to effectively convey the core principles or structural elements of a subject, ensuring clarity in the connection between the subject and its foundation. Consider alternatives like "are centered on" or "are based on" for nuanced variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are centered on

Emphasizes a central point or focus, shifting from construction to concentration.

are focused on

Highlights a specific area of attention, differing slightly in that it is more conceptual.

revolve around

Suggests a cyclical or repetitive dependence on the central element.

are based on

Indicates a foundational element, differing by implying a starting point rather than an ongoing structure.

are structured around

Highlights the organization and design with the subject as a core component.

are designed around

Focuses on the intentional planning with the subject as the main element of the design.

are predicated on

Implies a logical dependency or assumption, altering the nuance to one of precondition.

hinge on

Indicates a critical dependency, where everything else depends on the central element.

depend on

Suggests reliance on a core element for functionality or existence.

are constructed upon

Focuses on the building or development process, with a foundational element.

FAQs

How can I use "are built around" in a sentence?

Use "are built around" to describe something that is structured or focused on a particular principle, theme, or element. For example, "The curriculum is built around project-based learning".

What are some alternatives to "are built around"?

You can use alternatives like "are centered on", "are based on", or "revolve around" depending on the context.

What does it mean when something is described as "are built around" something else?

It means that the design, structure, or function of the first thing primarily depends on or is organized in relation to the second thing. The core and critical parts are made considering that specific reference point.

Is there a difference between saying something "are built around" or "are focused on"?

While both suggest a central theme, "are built around" implies a structural or foundational relationship, whereas "are focused on" suggests a concentration of attention or effort.