be built around

USAGE SUMMARY

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

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Strong communities could be built around them.

The New Yorker

The museum will be built around them by 2012.

The New York Times

Our economy used to be built around Kirschners.

The New York Times - Magazine

They'll be built around the Android KitKat 4.4 operating system.

Independent

Should poverty policy be built around housing vouchers?

Stanford University

That bridge could be built around two key pillars.

The Guardian

A park will be built around the ginkgo.

The New York Times

This reform bill must be built around three key principles.

The Guardian - Opinion

A building will now be built around it.

The New York Times

G protein-coupled receptors are believed to be built around a bundle of seven transmembrane helices.

Methods in Enzymology

A biomass-to-ethanol plant should be built around 200 MW.

Applied Energy

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be built around" when you want to emphasize that a concept, structure, or system is central to something else. For example, "The curriculum will be built around project-based learning".

Common error

Avoid overuse of the passive voice when using "be built around". Ensure the subject performing the action is clear, or the passive construction can sound weak or unclear. Instead of "Mistakes will be built around by the marketing team", clarify as, "The marketing team will build around mistakes".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be built around" functions as a passive construction indicating that a subject is designed, structured, or developed with a specific element or concept as its central focus. This usage is supported by examples from Ludwig, which showcase its versatility in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Academia

25%

Science

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be built around" is a versatile passive construction that signifies a central or foundational element upon which something is structured. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across diverse contexts, including news, academia, and science. The phrase's neutral register allows it to be employed in both formal and informal settings. While alternatives like "be centered on" or "be based on" exist, "be built around" specifically emphasizes the comprehensive structuring aspect. When using this phrase, ensure clarity in sentence construction to avoid ambiguity. With its high frequency and broad applicability, mastering the use of "be built around" will enhance the precision and clarity of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be centered on

Emphasizes a focal point; slightly more direct.

be focused on

Highlights a specific area of attention.

be based on

Highlights a foundation or starting point.

revolve around

Suggests a cyclical or iterative relationship.

be structured around

Focuses on the organizational aspect.

be organized around

Highlights the arrangement and systematization.

be designed around

Emphasizes the planning and intention behind the design.

be predicated on

Indicates a necessary condition or assumption.

be constructed upon

Suggests a gradual and deliberate building process.

be themed around

Focuses on a central motif or concept.

FAQs

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

Use "be built around" to indicate that something is structured or designed with a particular focus. For example, "The company's strategy will be built around customer satisfaction."

What are some alternatives to "be built around"?

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

Is it better to use "be built around" or "be based on"?

Both phrases are acceptable, but "be built around" implies a more comprehensive structuring, while "be based on" suggests a foundation. Choose the phrase that best fits the intended meaning.

Can "be built around" be used in both formal and informal contexts?

Yes, "be built around" can be used in various contexts, from formal writing to casual conversation, without sounding out of place. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding vocabulary and tone.