can build

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can build" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express the ability or potential to create or construct something, whether it be physical objects, relationships, or skills. Example: "With the right resources and teamwork, we can build a successful project that meets our goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He said: 'Anybody can build buildings.

The New York Times

You can build by not building.

The New Yorker

You can build well.

The New York Times

You can build cheap.

The New York Times

"You can build fast.

The New York Times

"I can build attraction.

The New York Times

"You can build randomness in".

The New York Times

It can build on this.

The New York Times - Sports

"I can build a fire.

The New York Times

But you can build momentum".

The New York Times - Sports

Football can build bridges.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can build" to describe not only physical structures but also abstract concepts like trust, momentum, or a career. This shows versatility in your writing.

Common error

Avoid starting multiple consecutive sentences with "can build". Vary your sentence structure by using synonyms or rephrasing to maintain reader engagement. Try alternatives like "is capable of building" or "has the ability to construct".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can build" functions as a modal verb phrase, indicating the ability or possibility to construct or create something. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Wiki

12%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can build" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to denote the ability or potential to construct or create. As Ludwig confirms, it is broadly accepted and frequently used, particularly in News & Media. While the phrase is generally neutral, be mindful of the specific context and consider more formal alternatives when appropriate. By avoiding overuse and varying sentence structure, you can effectively incorporate "can build" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is capable of building

Emphasizes capability and potential to construct.

has the ability to construct

Highlights the inherent ability to create something.

is able to create

Focuses on the act of creation as a possibility.

can construct

A more formal synonym focusing on the act of building.

is equipped to develop

Implies having the necessary tools or resources to develop.

possesses the means to erect

A more formal way of saying having the resources to build.

is in a position to assemble

Focuses on readiness and preparation for building or assembling.

can fabricate

Emphasizes the act of manufacturing or creating something, often in a technical sense.

can put together

An informal alternative focusing on assembling components.

has what it takes to establish

Highlights possessing the necessary qualities to build or establish something.

FAQs

What are some synonyms for "can build"?

Alternatives to "can build" include "can construct", "can create", "is able to build", or "is capable of building", depending on the specific context.

How can I use "can build" in a sentence?

You can use "can build" to express the ability or potential to create something. For example: "With the right resources, we "can build" a successful project."

Is it correct to say "can to build"?

No, "can to build" is grammatically incorrect. The correct form is ""can build"". The modal verb "can" is always followed by the base form of the verb.

What is the difference between "can build" and "will build"?

"Can build" expresses the ability or possibility to construct something, while "will build" expresses a future intention or certainty of constructing something. For example, "We "can build" a bridge if we have the resources" versus "We "will build" a bridge next year."