build up confidence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "build up confidence" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when talking about an individual or a group working together to increase self-confidence. For example, "I've been attending self-help seminars to help build up my confidence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

September victories build up confidence.

Los Angeles Times

One-to-one sessions would help build up confidence and provide ways of dealing with anxiety.

Independent

Package spent two days trying to build up confidence to attempt delivery again.

The New Yorker

To succeed at getting the job you want, you need to build up confidence in your abilities.

The Guardian

Above all, vary the game to suit the needs of different players and build up confidence levels with positive feedback.

The Guardian

Decision-makers can also make use of the system to build up confidence in new product development in terms of idea generation and product improvement.

Decision Support Systems

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

However, those in the exercise group felt that the rehabilitation programme was motivating, built up confidence, improved fitness, helped social interaction and gave them a sense of achievement.

Critical Care

"In days gone by, he could have built up confidence and strength in two or three little races," he said.

Independent

It had taken me a while, but I had built up confidence in the inexhaustibility of the Sierra's beauty.

The New York Times - Magazine

"When the first one falls it builds up confidence and it starts to roll". That's exactly what happened.

Los Angeles Times

NH: Yeah, I mean, I've built up confidence through all of those experiences, those years on the road with 311, and everything kind of works together.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to "build up confidence" in a team, start with small, achievable goals to create a sense of accomplishment and momentum.

Common error

Avoid the trap of "building up confidence" to the point where it becomes arrogance. Focus on genuine skill development and self-awareness rather than empty boasting.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "build up confidence" primarily functions as a verb phrase. It describes the action of gradually increasing someone's self-assurance and belief in their abilities. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and usable in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Wiki

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Academia

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "build up confidence" is a versatile and widely used expression signifying the gradual increase of self-assurance. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and appropriate for various contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media, Wiki, and Science sources, it serves to encourage, motivate, or describe the process of enhancing self-belief. When using the phrase, remember to focus on genuine skill development and avoid confusing confidence with arrogance. By setting achievable goals and providing positive feedback, you can effectively "build up confidence" in yourself and others.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

foster self-assurance

Emphasizes nurturing and encouraging a sense of self-belief.

develop self-esteem

Focuses on cultivating a positive view of oneself.

increase self-belief

Highlights the growth of faith in one's own capabilities.

bolster morale

Implies strengthening the spirit and confidence of a group.

cultivate a positive mindset

Focuses on developing an optimistic attitude that enhances confidence.

enhance self-reliance

Stresses the improvement of one's ability to depend on oneself.

grow in assurance

Indicates a gradual increase in certainty and self-confidence.

gain composure

Focuses on acquiring a calm and confident manner, especially in challenging situations.

reinforce self-worth

Highlights the strengthening of one's belief in their own value and importance.

encourage assertiveness

Promotes the development of a confident and forceful communication style.

FAQs

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

You can use "build up confidence" to describe actions that increase someone's self-assurance. For example, "Participating in public speaking workshops can help you "build up confidence"." or "Positive feedback is essential to "build up confidence" in students."

What are some alternative ways to express "build up confidence"?

Alternatives include "foster self-assurance", "develop self-esteem", or "increase self-belief", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "build up confidence" and "built up confidence"?

"Build up confidence" is the infinitive form, used to describe the action of increasing confidence. "Built up confidence" is the past participle form, used to describe confidence that has already been increased. For instance, "The training program aims to "build up confidence"" versus "She had "built up confidence" after years of practice."

What's the difference between "build up confidence" and "build up self-esteem"?

While related, "build up confidence" focuses on increasing belief in one's abilities, whereas "build up self-esteem"/"build up self-esteem" centers on enhancing one's overall sense of self-worth and value. You might "build up confidence" in a specific skill, but "build up self-esteem" relates to a broader sense of self-acceptance.