build up over time

USAGE SUMMARY

'build up over time' is correct and can be used in written English.
It usually refers to a gradual accumulation of something over a period of time, for example: "He has built up a large network of contacts over the years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Or does the damage from hits build up over time?

The Guardian - Sport

"Frustration and anger will build up over time".

The Guardian - Books

You can see how much they build up over time.

Harvard Business Review

Furthermore, the gain does not build up over time but has already occurred.

The Economist

"In Iraq and in Helmand, we could build up over time and establish ourselves.

The Guardian

People grow in passion and commitment, and causes build up over time.

The Guardian

The substance concentrates in bones, so even low levels in the environment can build up over time and become harmful.

The Guardian

But apartment owners are already feeling the brunt of a system under which tax bills build up over time.

The New York Times

Instead of trying to grab each frame in a single exposure, the scientist (unlike the entertainer) can wait as the data build up over time.

The Economist

Because many silicones are water-insoluble, though, they build up over time, and the only way to wash them out, she said, is to use a sulfate detergent.

The New York Times

But for stable patients with chronic heart disease, when blockages build up over time, the benefit of opening the artery with a stent is far less certain.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "build up over time" to describe gradual accumulation, such as skills, knowledge, or even problems. For example, "His expertise in the field built up over time through years of experience."

Common error

Avoid adding unnecessary reflexive pronouns like "itself" to the phrase. Saying "the tension built itself up over time" is redundant; simply use "the tension built up over time."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "build up over time" functions primarily as a verb phrase indicating a gradual increase or accumulation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts. Examples show it describing the accumulation of skills, pressure, and even physical substances like plaque.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Wiki

27%

Science

25%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "build up over time" is a versatile and commonly used expression that effectively describes a gradual accumulation or development. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts. The phrase is grammatically sound and appears frequently in news, scientific, and general writing, indicating its broad applicability. It's important to avoid redundant reflexive pronouns. By considering these nuances, writers can confidently and accurately employ "build up over time" in their work.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

accumulate gradually

Focuses on the gradual nature of accumulation, emphasizing the pace of the process.

develop incrementally

Highlights the step-by-step development process, stressing small, progressive changes.

increase steadily

Emphasizes the consistent and unwavering growth or rise over a period.

grow cumulatively

Stresses the additive nature of growth, where each addition builds on the previous one.

amass bit by bit

Focuses on the piecemeal accumulation, highlighting the small individual additions.

accrue progressively

Highlights the forward-moving accumulation, emphasizing the ongoing nature of the process.

intensify gradually

Emphasizes the increasing strength or degree over a period, highlighting the gradual nature of the intensification.

escalate slowly

Focuses on the gradual increase in intensity or severity, stressing the slow progression.

compound steadily

Highlights the consistent and additive effect, often used in the context of interest or investment.

gather momentum

Emphasizes the increasing speed and force over time, focusing on the build-up of energy or drive.

FAQs

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

You can use "build up over time" to describe something that accumulates or develops gradually. For example, "Stress can "build up over time" if not managed properly."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "build up over time"?

Alternatives include phrases like "accumulate gradually", "develop incrementally", or "increase steadily", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "builds up over time" instead of "build up over time"?

Yes, both are correct. "Builds up over time" is used when referring to a singular subject, while "build up over time" is used for plural subjects or in general statements. For example, "Pressure builds up over time" versus "Pressures build up over time."

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

While both suggest a gradual increase, "accumulate over time" generally refers to gathering a quantity of something, whereas ""build up over time"" can also imply development or intensification of something intangible like tension or skill.