builds up

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "builds up" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the process of increasing or accumulating something, such as tension, strength, or resources over time. Example: "As the project progressed, the excitement among the team members builds up, leading to a successful launch."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Nothing ever builds up".

The New York Times

Writer builds up a.

The New Yorker

It builds up and it builds up.

The Guardian - Sport

It builds up trust.

The Guardian

Your mind builds up brick walls.

The New Yorker

"Everything just builds up after a while.

The Guardian

"That all builds up," she said.

The New York Times

It builds up in your muscles.

The New York Times - Health

The dread builds up in layers.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Riding, of course, builds up an appetite.

The New York Times - Travel

A traditional "Nutcracker" builds up to the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "builds up" to describe a gradual increase or accumulation over time, whether it's tension, plaque, or momentum. It's effective in showing a process rather than a static state.

Common error

Avoid using "builds up" to describe events that happen suddenly or instantaneously. The phrase implies a gradual process, not an immediate change. For example, use "erupts" instead of "builds up" when describing a volcano's sudden explosion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "builds up" functions as a phrasal verb, typically acting as the verb in a sentence. It describes a process where something gradually increases or accumulates over time. As Ludwig AI suggests, it accurately conveys the concept of progressive growth.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "builds up" is a versatile and common expression used to describe a gradual increase or accumulation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, from scientific discussions to news reports and everyday conversations. When writing, remember to use "builds up" to emphasize a process of growth over time, and be mindful of its difference from similar phrases like "accumulates" or "escalates".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

accumulates

Single word synonym, representing a more direct form of gradual increase.

grows

Indicates a gradual increase in size, number, or intensity.

increases

Highlights the act of becoming larger or greater in quantity or degree.

escalates

Suggests a rapid or dramatic increase, often in intensity or severity.

intensifies

Focuses on the strengthening or heightening of something, such as feelings or pressure.

amasses

Implies a gathering or collecting of something, usually in large quantities.

compounds

Suggests an accumulation where each addition adds to the effect of the previous ones.

mounts

Indicates an increase in quantity, often to a significant level.

swells

Implies an increase in volume or size, often with a sense of expansion.

develops

Focuses on the gradual unfolding or expansion of something over time.

FAQs

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

Use "builds up" to describe the gradual increase of something over time, such as "Tension "builds up" before a major event" or "Plaque "builds up" if you don't brush regularly".

What are some alternatives to "builds up"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "accumulates", "grows", or "increases" instead of "builds up".

Is it correct to say "builds up" or "builds up to"?

"Builds up" describes a gradual increase, while "builds up to" implies a culmination or climax. For example, "The pressure "builds up"" versus "The anticipation "builds up to" the final scene".

What's the difference between "builds up" and "accumulates"?

While both imply an increase, "builds up" often suggests a more gradual and sometimes less structured process, whereas "accumulates" can imply a more deliberate or organized gathering. For example, "Debt accumulates with each missed payment" versus "Resentment "builds up" over time".