large build

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "large build" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who has a physically robust or solid physique. Example: "He has a large build, which makes him well-suited for playing football."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

He is described as white and of large build, about 6ft tall with dark hair.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It has added volatility to markets as bubbles, small and large, build and burst.

The New York Times

"Peter had a large build, and Bernie ridiculed him mercilessly, calling him 'Rollo,' which hurt Peter deeply".

The New York Times

Smith's deadpan style, along with his lugubrious manner and large build, quickly established him as one of the country's favourite television performers in the early 1980s.

The Guardian

He was described as white, in his 40s, about 6ft and of large build, with broad shoulders and dark-blond, spiky hair.

Independent

It is possible to slide into the rear seats without forcing the front seat occupants to get out first, or to tilt their seats forward, provided no one involved is of large build.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

Success in the War of 1812 goaded Congress to authorise a large build-up of naval forces.

The Economist

Top performers like AIM Trust and Eaglet have come down from their peaks, the latter only recently after large build-ups of stakes in the leisure and technology hardware sectors paid off initially.

The Guardian - Money

The aims are to stabilize the unstable or marginally stable motion and to control the large build-up of periodic disturbances occurring during operation.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

President Saakashvili is adamant that Georgia acted in self-defence, pointing to the large build-up of Russian troops on the other side of the border earlier that summer.

BBC

The combined forces observed a large build-up of North Korean troops on the west side of the river.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a person, use "large build" to convey physical size and robustness without necessarily implying negative connotations like being overweight. It can be a neutral or even positive descriptor depending on the context.

Common error

Avoid using "large build" interchangeably with terms that describe being overweight. "Large build" focuses on the frame and overall size, while "overweight" specifically indicates excess body fat. Choose the term that accurately reflects the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "large build" primarily functions as a descriptive adjective phrase modifying a noun, often referring to a person's physical stature. Ludwig confirms its acceptability for describing someone's physical appearance.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Wiki

33%

Science

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "large build" is a grammatically correct and usable English expression, as confirmed by Ludwig. It functions primarily as a descriptive phrase, typically used to describe a person's physical stature or the dimensions of an object. While the term is considered neutral and can appear in various contexts, it's more commonly found in news articles, general descriptions and wiki articles. Be mindful to avoid confusing it with terms that specifically indicate being overweight. Alternatives such as "stocky physique" or "hefty frame" can be used depending on the specific nuance you intend to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

solid build

Focuses on the firmness and density of the body.

stocky physique

Emphasizes the solid and sturdy nature of the build.

hefty frame

Highlights the size and structure of the body.

stout frame

Indicates a thicker, heavier build.

husky build

Suggests a strong and robust physique, often with a layer of fat.

broad frame

Focuses on the width and breadth of the person's shoulders and torso.

burly figure

Suggests a strong and muscular physique.

brawny physique

Similar to burly, but emphasizes strength and muscularity.

imposing figure

Emphasizes the impression of size and presence that the person creates.

overweight stature

Highlights that the large build is caused by excess of weight.

FAQs

How can I describe someone with a "large build"?

You can use terms like "stocky physique", "hefty frame", or "solid build" to describe someone with a similar body type.

What is the difference between "large build" and "overweight"?

"Large build" refers to the frame and overall size, while "overweight" specifically indicates excess body fat. Therefore, /s/overweight is not always the same of /s/large+build.

Is it offensive to describe someone as having a "large build"?

It depends on the context and tone. While "large build" is generally a neutral descriptor, be mindful of potential sensitivities and avoid using it in a judgmental or negative way.

What are some examples of people who might be described as having a "large build"?

Athletes like wrestlers or weightlifters, or individuals who are naturally broad-shouldered and physically robust might be described as having a "large build".