heavy build

USAGE SUMMARY

"heavy build" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a person, animal, or object, to indicate that it is large in size or has a sturdy structure. For example: "The boxer had a heavy build that made him very intimidating."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

Because of Alualu's relentless style and Knighton's heavy build, depth at defensive tackle is important.

The New York Times

The clash between John Cena and Kane in a Stretcher match – the first on Raw in a decade – has been given a heavy build throughout the night.

Independent

At just over 5ft 6in and with her heavy build, Bartoli looked like a moonlighting park player; the willowy, 6ft 1in Williams looked like a moonlighting basketball player.

The Guardian - Sport

The police described one of the suspects, Man A, as "dark-skinned, of medium to heavy build, unshaven with thinning hair".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The suspect had been described to them as a Korean man in his 40s with a heavy build and wearing khaki clothing.

The Guardian

Hound ancestry is suggested by the Sussex spaniel's long ears, loose skin, heavy build, and tendency to give tongue when tracking.

Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

With the exception of the bipedal Psittacosaurus, and perhaps the facultatively bipedal protoceratopsids, all ceratopsians were obligate quadrupeds with a heavy, ponderous build.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Patricio Northland, FirstCom's chief executive, attributed the losses to the heavy build-out of the company's fiber optics network in the three countries.

The New York Times

There are concerns that a heavy build-up of ash could clog waterways like the already silt-heavy Golgol river in Chile, leading to flash flooding.

BBC

Mitsubishi Heavy built the generators and installed them in 2010 and 2011.

Huffington Post

I think I might rather hear a heavy Built To Spill burner instead, though.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a person, use "heavy build" to convey that they are large or sturdy without necessarily implying obesity. Consider the context to avoid negative connotations.

Common error

While "heavy build" is acceptable, overuse can make your writing repetitive. Vary your descriptions by using synonyms like "stout physique" or "solid build" to maintain reader engagement and add nuance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "heavy build" functions primarily as a descriptive adjective phrase modifying a noun. It is used to provide information about the physical characteristics of a person, animal, or object, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Wiki

14%

Academia

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Science

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "heavy build" is a grammatically sound and widely used adjective phrase employed to describe a large or sturdy physical structure. Ludwig's examples show its prevalence in descriptive contexts, particularly in news and media where providing physical descriptions is essential. While generally neutral, it's important to use "heavy build" thoughtfully to avoid any unintended negative connotations. Alternative phrases like "stout physique" or "solid build" can offer nuanced alternatives. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's correctness and usability in English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stout physique

Emphasizes the robustness and firmness of the body.

stocky frame

Highlights the compact and solid structure of the body.

burly figure

Suggests a strong and muscular body, often associated with physical labor.

solid build

Focuses on the strength and density of the body structure.

large frame

Indicates an overall bigger body size without necessarily implying fatness.

robust constitution

Emphasizes the health and vigor associated with a strong body.

brawny physique

Implies a well-muscled and powerful body.

broad frame

Highlights the width and size of the body structure.

muscular build

Focuses on the presence of well-defined muscles.

portly figure

Suggests a round and stout body shape, often associated with older age.

FAQs

What does "heavy build" mean?

"Heavy build" describes someone or something that is large, sturdy, or robust in physical structure. It suggests a significant size or mass without necessarily implying being overweight.

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

You might say, "The suspect was described as having a "heavy build" and short brown hair" or "The dog breed is known for its "heavy build" and loyalty."

What are some synonyms for "heavy build"?

Alternatives include "stout physique", "stocky frame", or "solid build", each with slightly different connotations.

Is it appropriate to use "heavy build" when describing someone?

Yes, but use caution. While generally neutral, "heavy build" can sometimes be perceived negatively if the context implies criticism of someone's weight. Consider using more descriptive and positive terms if appropriate.