build rapport

USAGE SUMMARY

'build rapport' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it whenever you want to refer to creating a strong relationship between two or more people. For example, "The teacher took the time to build rapport with each of her students, which helped them to feel more comfortable in her classroom."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

2. Take time to build rapport.

Harvard University

We use active listening to build rapport," says Hodges.

Independent

"The goal is to build rapport," he said.

The New York Times

Use your findings to find common ground and build rapport.

The Guardian

They speak their customers' language in order to build rapport.

Harvard Business Review

Simply by virtue of its being so interactive, this approach helped me build rapport with students.

University of California, Berkeley

How can negotiators build rapport while also negotiating for a share of the pie of assets?

Harvard University

Jokes can build rapport but keep it polite and avoid swearing.

The Guardian

It takes time to build rapport on doorsteps, so don't rush.

The Guardian - Opinion

We build rapport by "matching" other people's body language, voice and words, says Fisher.

The Guardian

"It's about finding ways to build rapport," he said, adding, "I wouldn't rule out coercion.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to "build rapport", actively listen and show genuine interest in the other person's perspective to foster a more meaningful connection.

Common error

Avoid insincere attempts to "build rapport" as this can be perceived as manipulative. Focus on genuine connection and shared interests instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "build rapport" functions as a verb phrase. It describes the action of creating or developing a relationship of trust and understanding. Ludwig provides numerous examples of its usage in diverse contexts, affirming its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Academia

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

14%

Wiki

8%

Cover Letter

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "build rapport" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, as confirmed by Ludwig. It describes the process of establishing a relationship of trust and understanding, commonly used in news, academic, and business contexts. To enhance your writing, focus on genuine interest and avoid forced familiarity. Consider using alternatives like "establish connection" or "foster understanding" for nuanced expression. Remember that authenticity is key when aiming to "build rapport". Ludwig's examples showcase the versatility and widespread acceptance of this phrase across various disciplines.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

establish connection

Replaces "build rapport" with a focus on creating a bond.

foster understanding

Emphasizes the development of mutual comprehension rather than just relationship building.

cultivate relationships

Focuses on nurturing and developing relationships over time.

develop mutual trust

Highlights the trust aspect of building a relationship.

create common ground

Focuses on finding shared interests and understanding.

strengthen ties

Emphasizes reinforcing existing connections.

encourage open communication

Focuses on promoting dialogue.

improve understanding

Highlights better comprehension.

promote harmony

Emphasizes creating a peaceful and cooperative environment.

forge connections

Focuses on actively creating a bond.

FAQs

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

You can use "build rapport" to describe the process of establishing a positive relationship, such as "It's important to build rapport with your colleagues" or "The salesperson tried to build rapport with the client".

What are some alternative phrases to "build rapport"?

Some alternatives include "establish connection", "foster understanding", or "cultivate relationships" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "build rapport" or "establish rapport"?

Both "build rapport" and "establish rapport" are acceptable. "Build rapport" suggests a gradual process, while "establish rapport" implies a more immediate creation of connection.

What's the difference between "building rapport" and "being friendly"?

"Building rapport" involves a deliberate effort to create a connection, often for a specific purpose, while "being friendly" is a more general expression of warmth and openness. The goal of the activity is what sets them apart.