build up

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "build up" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a process of something increasing gradually over time. Example sentence: I have been training hard to build up my strength for the upcoming race.

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Radios build up morale.

Independent

We can only build up".

The New York Times

Build up their world credentials2.

The Economist

It can build up".

BBC

Such a build up.

BBC

Great character build up.

Wikipedia

You gradually build up.

WikiHow

Build up some strength.

WikiHow

Tough water build up.

WikiHow

Build up your multiplier.

WikiHow

Chemicals can build up.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "build up", consider the specific nuance you want to convey: accumulation, strengthening, or gradual development. Choose synonyms accordingly to ensure clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid relying heavily on "build up" in formal writing. Opt for more precise synonyms like "develop", "strengthen", or "accumulate" to enhance the sophistication and clarity of your message.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "build up" functions primarily as a dynamic verb, indicating an ongoing process of growth, accumulation, or strengthening. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's a common and grammatically sound phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

50%

News & Media

12%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrasal verb "build up" is a versatile and frequently used expression in English, primarily functioning to describe a gradual increase, strengthening, or development process. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable. While its register is generally neutral to informal, it's important to consider more precise synonyms like "accumulate", "strengthen", or "develop" in formal contexts to enhance clarity and sophistication. The phrase finds common usage in Wiki and News & Media, highlighting its adaptability across various writing styles. By understanding its nuances and potential alternatives, writers can effectively employ "build up" to convey the intended meaning with precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

accumulate

Focuses on the gradual increase in quantity or amount.

strengthen

Emphasizes the act of making something stronger or more resilient.

develop

Highlights the process of growth and advancement.

fortify

Implies strengthening something against potential threats or weaknesses.

increase gradually

Explicitly indicates a slow and incremental rise.

augment

Implies adding something to enhance or improve it.

escalate

Suggests a rapid or intense increase, often in a negative context.

compound

Refers to the accumulation of something, often with interest or growth.

amplify

Indicates making something louder or more intense.

cultivate

Focuses on nurturing and developing something over time.

FAQs

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

You can use "build up" to describe gradually increasing something, like "build up your strength" or "build up savings". It can also mean to strengthen something, such as "build up defenses".

What can I say instead of "build up"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "accumulate", "strengthen", or "develop".

Is it better to say "build up" or "develop"?

Both "build up" and "develop" can be appropriate. "Build up" often implies a gradual increase or strengthening, while "develop" suggests a more comprehensive process of growth and advancement. Choose the word that best fits the specific context.

What is the difference between "build up" and "accumulate"?

"Build up" implies a process of gradual increase or strengthening, whereas "accumulate" focuses more on the final quantity or amount that has been gathered. "Build up" can also refer to improving something, while "accumulate" typically refers to gathering something.