can build up

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can build up" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the process of accumulating or increasing something over time, such as emotions, tension, or physical objects. Example: "If you don't address your stress, it can build up and lead to serious health issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

With airtight buildings and homes, toxins can build up.

HuffPost

In older buildings, these extra costs can build up fast.

HuffPost

You can build up your own legend.

The Guardian - Music

I hope we can build up".

The New York Times

Air pollution can build up as a result.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Also, heat can build up and lead to dehydration.

Encyclopedia Britannica

You can build up an appetite just pulling them out.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Heavy powders can build up and clog on oily skin.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Under certain conditions tensions can build up, compromising the mechanical integrity of the container.

International Journal of Hydrogen Energy

Trust is significantly higher only when players can build up a reputation in both roles.

Journal of Economic Psychology

Buyers can build up a secret stake without paying a premium to smaller shareholders.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can build up" to describe the gradual accumulation of something, whether it's physical, emotional, or abstract. Ensure the context implies a process over time.

Common error

Avoid using "can build up" in situations where a more precise verb would be more effective. For instance, instead of saying "pressure can build up", consider using "pressure can accumulate" or "pressure can increase" for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can build up" functions primarily as a verb phrase indicating the potential for gradual accumulation or development. Ludwig examples show its usage across various contexts, highlighting its role in describing progressive increase or formation. The Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Wiki

32%

Science

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can build up" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe the potential for accumulation, development, or intensification over time. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and frequently used across various contexts, including news, encyclopedias, science and wiki sources. While broadly applicable, it's important to choose the most precise verb for the situation, considering alternatives such as "can accumulate" or "can increase" for enhanced clarity. The prevalence of this phrase makes it a valuable addition to any writer's vocabulary, provided it is used thoughtfully and contextually. The analysis shows that the phrase is most commonly found in News & Media and Wiki.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can accumulate

Focuses on the gradual gathering or amassing of something over time.

can develop

Emphasizes the process of growth or evolution.

can increase

Highlights the rise in quantity, size, or intensity.

can intensify

Stresses the strengthening or heightening of an effect or feeling.

can escalate

Suggests a rapid and often uncontrolled increase or expansion.

can accrue

Implies a gradual accumulation, often in financial or benefit contexts.

can compound

Focuses on the cumulative effect of repeated additions or increments.

can gather momentum

Describes the process of gaining speed or force.

can foster

Emphasizes nurturing and encouraging growth.

can cultivate

Implies careful development and refinement.

FAQs

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

You can use "can build up" to describe the accumulation of something over time, such as "Tension "can build up" if you don't communicate your feelings" or "Debt "can build up" quickly if you're not careful with your spending".

What are some alternatives to "can build up"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "can accumulate", "can increase", or "can develop" instead of ""can build up"".

Is it grammatically correct to say "can build up"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. "Can" is an auxiliary verb, and "build up" is a phrasal verb. It's a common and accepted construction in English.

What's the difference between "can build up" and "can accumulate"?

"Can build up" generally implies a gradual process of accumulation or development, while "can accumulate" focuses more on the final amount that has been gathered. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the process or the result.