build credit

USAGE SUMMARY

"build credit" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to the process of improving an individual's credit rating. For example, "Having a good credit score is very important, so it's a good idea to work on building credit over time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The loan, she said, "helped us build credit and let other creditors know we are people who pay".

The New York Times

Worse, those without bank accounts find it hard to save, build credit histories and obtain loans at reasonable rates.

The Economist

This could help unbanked customers build credit histories, opening the way to loans and other financial products.

The Economist

Instead of continuing to avoid my credit, I've opened two small credit cards to help me build credit responsibly.

The Guardian - Opinion

"If the objective is really to build credit histories for people who have no file, or thin files, let them opt in," he said.

The New York Times

"That happens because many women never build credit histories, so the banks ask their husbands to back the loan," Dr. Muraskin said.

The New York Times

Some European exchanges are keen to emulate U.S.-based rivals in working with banks to build credit default swap clearing houses.

The New York Times

"What surprised me was that all the other things I was doing, being responsible, weren't enough to help me build credit".

The Guardian - Money

They can use the money transfer history of their clients to build credit scores based on the amount they have received from relatives.

The Guardian

To that end, DotOrg has awarded $3 million to TechnoServe to find worthy entrepreneurs and help them build credit records and get access to larger markets.

The New York Times - Tech

"These cards are pitched as a way to build credit, but with these kind of steep fees and high interest rates, there is a good chance they will hurt," she said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to "build credit", consistently pay bills on time and maintain low balances on credit cards to demonstrate responsible financial behavior.

Common error

Don't fall into the trap of thinking you need to carry a balance on your credit card to "build credit". Paying your balance in full each month is far more effective and saves you money on interest.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "build credit" functions primarily as a verb phrase followed by a noun. It describes the action of improving one's creditworthiness or establishing a credit history. Ludwig AI confirms this is a valid construction in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "build credit" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that refers to the process of establishing or improving one's creditworthiness. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous real-world examples. The phrase is most commonly found in news and media, wiki articles and in formal business contexts. To effectively "build credit", focus on paying bills on time and managing credit card balances responsibly. Avoid the misconception that carrying a balance is necessary. Alternatives include "establish credit history" and "improve credit rating". Understanding these nuances ensures clear and effective communication about credit management.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

establish credit history

Focuses on creating a credit record from scratch, implying a starting point.

improve credit rating

Highlights the act of enhancing an existing credit score, focusing on the rating itself.

increase creditworthiness

Emphasizes the overall financial reliability as perceived by lenders.

develop a credit profile

Stresses the creation of a detailed credit report.

boost credit score

Highlights the act of increasing credit score in a quick manner.

cultivate good credit

Suggests a careful and ongoing effort to maintain a positive credit standing.

form a credit history

Focuses on the creation of the whole credit report.

grow credit standing

Highlights how credit score evolves with financial habits.

foster credit growth

Suggests a broader strategy to promote the expansion of credit opportunities.

shape credit future

Implies influencing the future of one's creditworthiness.

FAQs

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

You can use "build credit" in a sentence like: "Using a secured credit card is a good way to "build credit" if you have no credit history."

What are some alternatives to saying "build credit"?

Alternatives to "build credit" include "establish credit history", "improve credit rating", or "increase creditworthiness", depending on the context.

Which is correct, "build credit" or "building credit"?

Both "build credit" and "building credit" can be correct, but they function differently. "Build credit" is an infinitive phrase (to build credit), while "building credit" is a gerund phrase and can act as a noun (Building credit takes time and discipline).

What's the difference between "build credit" and "repair credit"?

"Build credit" refers to establishing a credit history, whereas "repair credit" refers to improving a damaged credit history, often involving strategies to address negative items on your credit report.