building bridges

USAGE SUMMARY

"building bridges" is correct and usable in written English.
It is an expression that can be used to describe a situation where two parties are developing a positive and cooperative relationship. For example, you could say: "We are committed to building bridges between our two communities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It campaigned on building bridges, not barriers.

Independent

Collins is known for building bridges.

The Guardian

Instead of building bridges, he burned them.

The Guardian

"He is interested in building bridges".

The New York Times

"Turkey is saying, 'You've been talking about building bridges.

The New York Times

"They've been building bridges in terms of communication".

The New York Times

At one point, the building bridges over a running track.

The New Yorker

Putin has been building bridges to Xi Jinping, China's president.

The Guardian

We went to work building bridges with the population.

The New York Times

"That would maybe not be building bridges with them.

The Guardian - Sport

Marketing pomegranates, installing solar cells, building bridges — something like that?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "building bridges" to emphasize efforts to create understanding and cooperation between different groups or perspectives. It suggests a proactive approach to overcoming divisions.

Common error

Avoid using "building bridges" in contexts where literal construction or infrastructure development is meant. The phrase is primarily metaphorical and should be reserved for abstract concepts of connection and understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "building bridges" functions as a gerund phrase, often used as a noun or part of a verb phrase to describe an ongoing action. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is correct and usable in written English, which validates its grammatical function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "building bridges" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that conveys the action of creating connections and fostering understanding. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is widely accepted in various contexts. It is most commonly found in News & Media, Scientific and Formal & Business writing. Remember to use it metaphorically when referring to abstract concepts of connection rather than literal constructions. Alternatives like "fostering understanding" or "promoting collaboration" can be used depending on the specific nuance. Overall, "building bridges" is a valuable and versatile phrase for describing efforts to unite and connect different entities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fostering understanding

Focuses more on the process of creating mutual comprehension.

promoting collaboration

Highlights the aspect of working together and cooperation.

establishing connections

Emphasizes the creation of relationships and links.

forging alliances

Suggests a more formal and strategic type of partnership.

cultivating relationships

Implies a gradual and nurturing approach to developing bonds.

creating harmony

Focuses on generating a state of peaceful coexistence and agreement.

encouraging dialogue

Highlights the importance of conversation and open communication.

reconciling differences

Specifically addresses the resolution of conflicts and disagreements.

mediating disputes

Implies intervention to resolve conflicts between parties.

facilitating communication

Focuses on making communication easier and more effective.

FAQs

How can I use "building bridges" in a sentence?

You can use "building bridges" to describe efforts to connect people, ideas, or communities. For example, "The conference aims at "building bridges" between different research fields."

What are some alternatives to "building bridges"?

Alternatives include "fostering understanding", "promoting collaboration", and "establishing connections", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "building bridges" or "building walls"?

"Building bridges" and "building walls" represent opposite approaches. "Building bridges" signifies connection and unity, while "building walls" suggests division and separation. The choice depends on the intended message.

What does it mean to say someone is "building bridges"?

To say someone is "building bridges" means they are working to create understanding, cooperation, and positive relationships between individuals or groups, often across differences or divides.