built up slowly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "built up slowly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a process or development that occurs gradually over time. Example: "The trust between the team members was built up slowly through consistent communication and collaboration."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

During the longer, nonactive period, the speed of the flywheel is built up slowly by a comparatively low-powered motor.

Encyclopedia Britannica

'Normally it comes on quickly, but when I was following the Atkins it built up slowly over three weeks.

The Guardian

Even the limited force now in place has built up slowly: only 3,000 soldiers of a planned 5,000 have been deployed so far.

The New York Times

It's not the size of the irritant, it's the motion of the countless layers of nacre built up slowly and imperceptibly over many years.

The New Yorker

Submarine slump, in a submarine canyon or on a continental slope, relatively rapid and sporadic downslope composed of sediment and organic debris that has built up slowly into an unstable or marginally stable mass.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But he also notes that like the generations of shared history and perspective that link the graduates of Oxford and Cambridge, guanxi is something that is built up slowly and carefully over the long term.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

Build up slowly and do what you enjoy.

Independent

"Once a kid gets spooked, you just have to go back to the basics and build up slowly," Brigham said.

The New York Times - Sports

You may not be able to play the same kind of competitive sports, but the trick is to build up slowly with low-impact activities.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"I remember what I thought then: A situation that a novelist would have to build up slowly, gradually, through a number of chapters, over months or perhaps years, fate has arranged in minutes, in a few strokes.

The New Yorker

She thinks he's cautious, too held back, timid even, and it's probably true, but it's also something else: he likes things to build up slowly, because when it happens that way everything feels important.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the development of a skill or expertise, use "built up slowly" to emphasize the importance of patience and consistent effort.

Common error

Avoid using "built up slowly" when the context requires highlighting rapid growth or immediate impact. The phrase inherently suggests a gradual, rather than immediate, progression.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "built up slowly" functions as a verb phrase indicating a process or development that occurs gradually over time. Ludwig AI confirms the validity and common usage of the phrase across varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

33%

Wiki

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "built up slowly" is a grammatically sound and frequently used verb phrase that describes a gradual process or development. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common usage. It's most often found in News & Media and Scientific contexts, indicating its versatility. When using this phrase, ensure the context aligns with the idea of gradual progression. Consider alternatives like "developed gradually" or "accumulated incrementally" for subtle variations in meaning. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for diverse writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

developed gradually

This alternative replaces "built up" with "developed", focusing on the process of growth or formation over time.

accumulated incrementally

This phrase emphasizes the step-by-step nature of the increase or growth.

progressed steadily

This alternative suggests a consistent and unwavering advancement.

advanced gradually

This option highlights the forward movement that occurs over a period of time.

increased over time

This phrase simply states that something has grown or become larger across a duration.

grew bit by bit

This alternative emphasizes the small, individual contributions to overall growth.

evolved in stages

This suggests that something has developed through a series of distinct phases.

materialized gradually

This option highlights the fact that something becomes real slowly over time.

unfolded steadily

This alternative highlights a process of slow and consistent revelation or development.

ramped up slowly

This alternative implies a gradual escalation or increase in intensity or activity.

FAQs

How can I use "built up slowly" in a sentence?

You can use "built up slowly" to describe processes, relationships, or skills that develop gradually over time. For example, "The company's reputation was "built up slowly" through years of reliable service."

What are some alternatives to "built up slowly"?

Some alternatives include "developed gradually", "accumulated incrementally", or "progressed steadily", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "slowly built up" instead of "built up slowly"?

While "slowly built up" is grammatically acceptable, "built up slowly" is more common and generally preferred. The latter emphasizes the gradual nature of the building process itself.

What's the difference between "built up slowly" and "expanded rapidly"?

"Built up slowly" suggests a gradual, incremental growth, whereas "expanded rapidly" indicates a quick and significant increase in size or scope. The choice depends on the actual pace of the development you are describing.