build-up to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "build-up to" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe the process or series of events leading to a particular climax or outcome. Example: "The build-up to the final match created an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation among the fans."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

The build-up to Rio was choppy.

The Guardian - Sport

Unable to prevent build-up to equaliser.

The Guardian - Sport

Probably yes, but expect any build-up to be gradual.

Independent

Pryce had a troubled build-up to the competition.

The Guardian - Sport

Think the build-up to Brexit was polarising and scary?

The Guardian - Opinion

7. The build-up to England v Brazil.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Rather, they build up to a threshold.

The Economist

It will gradually build up to 420 pupils.

Independent

Over time, build up to a one-minute plank.

The New York Times - Health

We build up to tear down, overrate and overhype.

The New York Times - Sports

"An artist likes to build up to a crescendo".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "lead-in" or "run-up" to avoid repetition and add variety to your writing, especially when discussing similar events within the same text.

Common error

Avoid using "build-up to" when simply referring to unrelated events happening before a key event. Make sure there is a clear sense of progression and preparation towards a specific outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "build-up to" functions as a prepositional phrase often used as an adjective modifying a noun, to describe the period or series of events leading to a specific event or climax. Ludwig examples show its versatility in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

27%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "build-up to" is a versatile and grammatically correct expression used to describe the period or events that precede a significant occurrence. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common usage across various domains, especially in news and media. While synonyms like "lead-in to" and "run-up to" offer alternative phrasing, "build-up to" effectively sets the stage for an anticipated event, creating context and suspense. When using this phrase, ensure a clear connection between the preceding events and the final outcome to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lead-in to

Focuses on the introductory period before an event.

run-up to

Emphasizes the final preparations and activities before an event.

prelude to

Suggests a more formal and significant preceding event.

preparations for

Highlights the active process of getting ready for an event.

approach to

Focuses on the gradual coming closer to an event or situation.

progression to

Emphasizes the step-by-step development leading to a certain point.

development toward

Stresses the gradual and ongoing process of moving towards a specific outcome.

ascent to

Implies a rise or climb towards a peak or important event.

road to

Suggests a journey or path that leads to a specific event or goal.

pathway to

Similar to "road to", but may imply a more structured or planned route.

FAQs

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

You can use "build-up to" to describe the period or events leading to a significant event, such as "The "build-up to" the championship game was filled with intense training and media coverage."

What are some alternatives to "build-up to"?

Some alternatives include "lead-in to", "run-up to", or "preparations for", depending on the specific context.

Is "build up to" the same as "build-up to"?

"Build up to" (two words) usually refers to a gradual increase or accumulation, while "build-up to" (hyphenated) usually refers to the period of events leading to a climax or event. Both forms are related but used in different contexts.

What's the difference between "build-up to" and "lead-up to"?

While both phrases are similar, "lead-up to" often emphasizes the timeline leading to the event, and ""build-up to"" can suggest a more active process of preparation or anticipation.