build around

USAGE SUMMARY

"build around" is correct and usable in written English.
It is a phrasal verb with the meaning of forming something or creating something using something else as the main foundation or base. For example, "We built the new library around the existing building."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We want guys to prove that they are people we can build around," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

We aim to build around 300 affordable homes over the next three years.

The Guardian

The congregation is in the people, and all the rest we can build around".

The New York Times

"Something [on the schedule] that you could build around".

Forbes

"This is a feature that we can build around on Friday nights.

BBC

"He's the foundation of the lineup, a guy you want to build around".

Los Angeles Times

The point is to create a focal point in your outfit and then build around that.

WikiHow

No, just build around it.

The New York Times

Bees build around a red trace.

The New York Times - Books

I need to build around that".

The New York Times - Sports

Bees build around the honeycomb of lungs, Ants build around white bone.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "build around" in the context of team strategy, clearly identify the key player or strength that the team's tactics will revolve around.

Common error

Avoid using "build around" without a specific and well-defined core element. Ensure that what you are building around is clearly identifiable and contributes significantly to the overall structure or plan.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "build around" functions as a transitive verb, requiring an object to complete its meaning. It indicates the act of creating or developing something with a specific element serving as the core or foundation. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

11%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "build around" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to describe the process of constructing or developing something with a central element as its foundation. Ludwig AI confirms its wide applicability across various contexts, including news, general discussions, scientific research and professional settings. It is a common expression, and suitable for various writing styles. Understanding its function and purpose, as well as considering alternative phrases, can enhance clarity and precision in writing. Paying attention to best practices and common errors ensures effective communication using "build around".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

develop around

Focuses on gradual growth and refinement around a core element, implying a longer-term process.

center on

Emphasizes the act of having something as a focal point or primary subject.

revolve around

Suggests that everything is organized or structured with a particular element at its core.

base on

Highlights the foundation upon which something is established, emphasizing the initial element.

construct upon

Similar to "build around", but implies a more formal or planned construction process.

form around

Focuses on the creation of something with a specific element as the nucleus.

design around

Emphasizes the planning and designing process with a central element in mind.

establish upon

Similar to "base on", but implies a more solid and enduring foundation.

organize around

Suggests a structured arrangement with a central focus.

hinge on

Indicates that the outcome or success depends heavily on a particular element.

FAQs

How to use "build around" in a sentence?

You can use "build around" to describe constructing a plan or strategy, like "The team decided to "build around" its star player", or to describe physical construction, like "The city decided to "build around" the historic monument".

What can I say instead of "build around"?

You can use alternatives like "center on", "revolve around", or "base on" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "build around" or "built around"?

"Build around" is the base form, used in present tense or infinitives. "Built around" is the past tense and past participle.

What's the difference between "build around" and "construct around"?

"Build around" is more general and can refer to physical or abstract construction, while "construct around" typically implies a more deliberate and planned process.