build bridges with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "build bridges with" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe the act of creating connections or fostering relationships between people or groups. Example: "In order to resolve the conflict, we need to build bridges with the opposing party and find common ground."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Recent party efforts to build bridges with the Keidanren, Japan's lead industrial organization, have produced little.

The New York Times

He has sought to build bridges with the army and the royalist Bangkok establishment.

The Economist

They are trying to build bridges with the security establishment; they need them to quell dissent.

The Guardian - Opinion

It will cost a total of £175m to build: bridges with trees on don't come cheap.

The Guardian - Arts

The government was keen at the highest level to "build bridges" with the Kremlin, Emmerson said.

The Guardian

Leading Republicans oppose the proposed rules, undermining the GOP's attempt to build bridges with Silicon Valley.

The Guardian

He has sought to build bridges with the army and the royalist Bangkok establishment, which opposed Mr Thaksin.

The Economist

Ukrainian leaders have sought to build bridges with NATO joining, for instance, its Partnership for Peace programme without alienating Russia.

The Economist

That had led Ms. Merkel to build bridges with Britain on issues like the E.U. budget, at France's expense.

The New York Times

Above all, the challenge facing the new lord chancellor must be to build bridges with lawyers and judges.

The Guardian - Opinion

His attempt to build bridges with the right has alienated his former friends in the centre without converting conservatives.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about diplomacy or negotiation, "build bridges with" suggests a proactive effort to overcome differences.

Common error

While versatile, using "build bridges with" in extremely casual conversation can sound overly formal. Opt for simpler phrases like "connect with" or "get along with" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "build bridges with" primarily functions as a verb phrase indicating an action taken to improve relationships or establish connections. Ludwig examples show its usage in political, business, and social contexts, reflecting efforts to reconcile differences and foster understanding.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "build bridges with" is a common and grammatically sound idiom used to describe efforts to improve relationships or establish connections between individuals or groups. According to Ludwig, it is prevalent in news and media, formal business contexts and is considered generally neutral to professional in register. Its authoritative sources, including The Guardian, The New York Times, and The Economist, further solidify its credibility. While versatile, it's best to reserve it for situations where a deliberate and strategic approach to reconciliation is intended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Strengthen ties with

Indicates reinforcing existing connections to make them more robust.

Foster understanding with

Focuses on promoting mutual comprehension and empathy.

Develop connections with

Focuses on creating new relationships where none existed before.

Create understanding with

Focuses on the act of forming mutual comprehension.

Improve communication with

Specifically targets enhancing the exchange of information and ideas.

Nurture relationships with

Highlights the caring and attentive effort needed to maintain connections.

Establish rapport with

Emphasizes creating a harmonious and trusting connection.

Promote harmony with

Emphasizes creating peaceful and cooperative interactions.

Cultivate relations with

Highlights the active and ongoing effort required to nurture connections.

Forge alliances with

Suggests forming partnerships for mutual benefit or support.

FAQs

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

You can use "build bridges with" to describe efforts to improve relationships or understanding between people or groups. For example, "The company is trying to build bridges with its customers after the recent data breach".

What can I say instead of "build bridges with"?

You can use alternatives like "foster understanding with", "establish rapport with", or "strengthen ties with" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "build bridges with" or "build a bridge with"?

While "build a bridge with" can be used, "build bridges with" is more common and generally implies ongoing efforts to maintain and strengthen relationships rather than a one-time connection.

When is it appropriate to use "build bridges with" in professional writing?

"Build bridges with" is appropriate in professional writing when discussing efforts to improve relationships with stakeholders, clients, or other organizations. It suggests a strategic and proactive approach to fostering collaboration and understanding.