build bridges

USAGE SUMMARY

"build bridges" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to refer to the concept of creating or strengthening relationships between different people, groups, or ideas. For example: "We must strive to build bridges between different communities and cultures in our city."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Lifestyle

TV & Radio

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Instead of building walls we can help build bridges.

The Guardian - Tech

"We Italians build bridges".

The New York Times - Sports

You have to build bridges.

The New York Times

You build bridges".

The New York Times - Arts

Football can build bridges.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Utilise stress, build bridges, and channel energy.

Independent

"We don't build bridges anymore," he said.

The New York Times

Student 5: "I'm going to build bridges".

The New York Times

But McCall kept trying to build bridges.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

We have to build bridges, not walls".

The Guardian - Sport

How do you build bridges between people?

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "build bridges" to emphasize the intention of creating understanding and cooperation between groups that may have differences.

Common error

Avoid using "build bridges" in contexts where a more literal or direct expression would be clearer. The phrase is effective when used thoughtfully, but overuse can dilute its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "build bridges" functions primarily as a verb phrase. It signifies the action of establishing connections and fostering understanding between different groups or entities. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "build bridges" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe the act of establishing connections and fostering understanding between different groups. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's a correct and usable phrase in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media, but also relevant in Formal & Business contexts, it serves to encourage collaboration and reconciliation. While versatile, it's important to avoid overusing the metaphor to maintain its impact. Alternatives such as "foster understanding" or "improve relations" can be used to add variety. In essence, "build bridges" symbolizes the effort to overcome divisions and promote harmony, making it a valuable expression in various communicative settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

foster understanding

Focuses on promoting comprehension and acceptance between different groups.

establish connections

Highlights the creation of links or relationships where none existed before.

improve relations

Emphasizes the enhancement of existing relationships, making them better.

promote harmony

Suggests creating a state of peaceful coexistence and cooperation.

cultivate goodwill

Implies nurturing positive feelings and cooperative attitudes.

forge alliances

Stresses the formation of partnerships or coalitions for mutual benefit.

encourage collaboration

Focuses on promoting cooperative efforts towards a common goal.

create rapport

Highlights establishing a harmonious and understanding relationship.

develop synergy

Emphasizes the creation of a combined effect greater than the sum of individual efforts.

strengthen ties

Suggests reinforcing existing relationships, making them more robust.

FAQs

How can I use "build bridges" in a sentence?

You can use "build bridges" to describe efforts to connect different groups or ideas, such as, "The organization aims to build bridges between the community and local government."

What can I say instead of "build bridges"?

You can use alternatives like "foster understanding", "improve relations", or "establish connections" depending on the specific context.

Is "building bridges" or "build bridges" more common?

"Build bridges" is the base form, often used in general statements or imperatives. "Building bridges" is the gerund form, used as a noun or in continuous tenses. Both are correct, but their usage depends on the sentence structure.

What is the difference between "build bridges" and "build walls"?

"Build bridges" implies creating connections and understanding, while "build walls" suggests creating barriers and division. The phrases are often used in opposition to highlight contrasting approaches.