build something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "build something" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of creating or constructing an object, project, or idea. Example: "The team decided to build something innovative that would change the way we approach renewable energy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Let's build something together".

The New York Times

To build something, create something.

The New Yorker

"We want to build something.

The New York Times - Arts

Slowly, you build something emotional.

The New Yorker

"I want to build something.

The New York Times

"We need to build something".

The New York Times - Sports

They want to build something better.

The Economist

Now he hankered to build something new.

The New York Times

I just needed to actually build something.

The New York Times

Let us instead build something great together.

Independent

"We get to build something".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "build something", consider the specific context to ensure it accurately reflects the intended meaning. Is it about physical construction, establishing a company, or developing a skill? Choose the word that best fits.

Common error

Avoid using "build something" too generically. While versatile, it can be vague. For abstract concepts like relationships or trust, consider more specific verbs like "foster", "cultivate", or "establish" to convey a more nuanced meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "build something" primarily functions as a verb phrase, where "build" is a transitive verb requiring a direct object. Ludwig indicates its correctness and usability. It signifies the action of creating or constructing an object, system, or concept, as shown in the examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "build something" is a versatile and frequently used verb phrase signifying the act of creating or constructing. Ludwig confirms its correctness and widespread applicability across diverse contexts. Analysis reveals its prevalence in news media, scientific discourse, and formal business communications. While generally neutral in register, it's essential to consider more specific alternatives like "create", "construct", or "establish" to enhance precision in abstract contexts. Overall, "build something" remains a valuable and reliable phrase for expressing the intention, action, or possibility of bringing something into existence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Create something

Focuses on the act of bringing something into existence, similar to building but can be less structural.

Construct something

Emphasizes the process of assembling or putting something together, often in a more formal or technical sense.

Establish something

Highlights the act of setting up or founding something, often referring to systems or organizations.

Develop something

Implies a gradual process of growth and improvement, focusing on refinement over initial creation.

Formulate something

Centers on the act of devising or creating a plan or strategy, rather than a physical object.

Generate something

Focuses on producing or bringing something forth, often in the context of data or energy.

Fabricate something

Suggests the creation of something, often with the implication of artificiality or deception.

Compose something

Implies creating something artistic or literary, such as music or writing.

Pioneer something

Highlights the act of initiating or being the first to develop something novel or innovative.

Engineer something

Emphasizes the design and construction of something, often involving technical or scientific principles.

FAQs

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

The phrase "build something" is used to describe the act of creating or constructing an object, project, or idea. For example, "The team decided to build something innovative."

What are some alternatives to saying "build something"?

You can use alternatives like "create something", "construct something", or "establish something" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "build something" or "make something"?

While both can refer to creation, "build something" often implies a more structured or complex process than "make something". The best choice depends on the specific thing being created.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "build something"?

It might be inappropriate when referring to something intangible that doesn't involve construction or development. In those cases, consider alternatives like "cultivate something" or "foster something".