medium build

USAGE SUMMARY

'medium build' is a correct phrase to use in written English.
You can use it to describe someone's physical stature or body type. For example, "She was an average-looking woman of medium build."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Medium build.

The New York Times - Magazine

There are seven body types from the combinations below: Pitta (fire and water) Body type: Medium build and height, soft fair skin, not happy in extreme heat.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Baranik is gorgeous too, but he describes his body as "medium build" because he doesn't have abs.

Vice

I know that he is black, that he has a medium build and that he stutters.

The New York Times - Magazine

Cowley is described as white, of medium build, around 5ft 4ins.

The Guardian

"Big, small or medium build, we play hard along the boards," Tortorella said.

The New York Times - Sports

The suspect is described as black, 5 feet 9 inches, and of medium build.

The New York Times

The first showed a man of average height and medium build, carrying a bag of some sort.

The New York Times

A bearded man with a medium build, Mr. Maalik took exception with the experts who had conducted the seismological survey.

The New York Times

They were medium build, six-feet-tall white men in their 30s with light-brown hair and moustaches.

The Guardian

McKeague is described as white, 1.78 metres (5ft 10ins), of medium build, with short light brown hair.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a person's physical appearance, use "medium build" in conjunction with other descriptive details such as height, hair color, and distinguishing features for a more complete picture.

Common error

Avoid using "medium build" as the only descriptor. It provides limited information; combine it with specifics about height, age, and other characteristics to create a clearer image.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "medium build" functions primarily as a descriptive adjective phrase. It modifies a noun (usually a person) to provide information about their body type, indicating that they are neither overly thin nor heavily built. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "medium build" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to describe a person's body type that is neither thin nor heavily built. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and widespread usage. It is most frequently found in news and media contexts, providing a neutral and easily understood descriptor. For more detailed descriptions, it is recommended to combine "medium build" with other physical attributes. While the phrase itself is straightforward, it is crucial to use it accurately and in conjunction with other descriptive elements to avoid overgeneralization.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

average build

This alternative is a direct synonym, emphasizing that the physique is neither overly muscular nor slender.

moderate physique

This alternative employs a more formal tone, suggesting a balanced body structure.

balanced frame

This alternative emphasizes proportion and symmetry in the body's structure.

athletic build

This suggests a body type that's fit but not excessively muscled.

regular stature

This alternative emphasizes a standard and unremarkable body size.

of average proportions

Highlights the balanced relationship between different body parts.

normal weight

Focuses more on weight than overall body composition.

average weight

Similar to normal weight, but highlights a more statistical average.

not overly muscular

Describes what the build is not, rather than what it is.

moderately sized

Focuses on size in a general sense, applicable to overall body dimensions.

FAQs

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

You can use "medium build" to describe someone's physique, for example: "The suspect was described as being of "medium build" and approximately six feet tall."

What are some alternative ways to describe someone who is "medium build"?

Alternatives to "medium build" include "average build", "moderate physique", or "balanced frame".

Is it appropriate to use "medium build" in formal writing?

Yes, "medium build" is appropriate in formal writing, particularly when providing descriptions in reports, articles, or official documents. It's a neutral and widely understood term.

What details should I include along with "medium build" for a more accurate description?

To enhance accuracy, include details such as height, weight (if known), age, and any distinctive features. For example, "The witness described the person as being of "medium build", approximately 5'10", with short brown hair."