long build up

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "long build up" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or narrative that takes a considerable amount of time to develop before reaching a climax or conclusion. Example: "The movie had a long build up, but the final twist was worth the wait."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

It's one long build up, a description of a street, leading up to the evening, in which something happens.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

"On the other hand, I feel it is Sony's mission to pursue and expand the market for the kind of gaming that PlayStation has long built up — the kind of ultimate portable gaming device that brings you more engaging games".

The New York Times - Tech

The myths that I had long built up around my speech were debunked one by one.

Huffington Post

There has also been virtually no violence in the north, where the majority Kurds had long built up their own institutions.

The New York Times

By that time Choi had long built up goodwill with the Vietnamese officials.

Forbes

When I first started in politics, these things took so long to build up momentum; your decision points were well before that moment was achieved.

The Guardian

The Highways Agency said removing the toll booths would help reduce congestion at the crossing, where long queues build up regularly.

BBC

Not everyone wants to be a student for that long (nor build up that many debts!), but for those who are sure it is what they want it is hardly any sacrifice at all.

Science Magazine

That's way too long to build up your anticipation, so this Sunday be sure to keep looking up.

Huffington Post

Whether migration could bias study results depends on when the water fluoride level is thought to have an effect on the woman: whether it is a long term build up or a short term effect around the time of conception.

BMC Public Health

Most roller coasters have one thing in common, a long, slow build up to the first massive hill and the first big drop.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase, consider if synonyms like "gradual development" /s/gradual+development or "extended lead-up" /s/extended+lead-up might offer more precision or variety in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "long build up" excessively, as it can become repetitive. Vary your language with synonyms to maintain reader engagement and interest.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "long build up" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject or object in a sentence. It describes a period of gradual increase or development. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "long build up" is a versatile noun phrase used to describe a gradual development or extended preparatory period. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is commonly used and grammatically correct. It appears most frequently in News & Media contexts, serving to create anticipation or to explain a drawn-out process. When writing, it's advisable to consider synonyms to avoid repetition and ensure clarity, especially in formal settings. It's important to use this phrase when you wish to convey a sense of something slowly gathering momentum or developing over an extended period.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gradual development

Focuses on the slow and incremental nature of the development.

extended lead-up

Highlights the preparatory period before an event or climax.

protracted development

Emphasizes the length and drawn-out nature of the development process.

lengthy preparation

Stresses the extensive preparation involved.

slow accumulation

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

gradual escalation

Indicates a slow and steady increase in intensity or magnitude.

drawn-out process

Highlights the prolonged and sometimes tedious nature of the process.

extended growth phase

Emphasizes the prolonged period of growth or development.

long-term cultivation

Implies a deliberate and sustained effort to nurture or develop something.

gradual intensification

Focuses on the gradual strengthening or heightening of something.

FAQs

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

You can use "long build up" to describe a period of increasing tension or preparation before a significant event, as in "The movie had a "long build up", culminating in an explosive climax."

What are some alternatives to "long build up"?

Alternatives include "gradual development" /s/gradual+development, "extended lead-up" /s/extended+lead-up, or "protracted development" /s/protracted+development, depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "long build up" formal or informal?

"Long build up" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though more formal writing might benefit from synonyms like "extended preparation" /s/extended+preparation.

What's the difference between "long build up" and "sudden change"?

"Long build up" refers to a gradual process of development, while "sudden change" implies an abrupt shift. They are contrasting concepts.