of moderate build

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "of moderate build" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who has a body size that is neither too thin nor too heavy, indicating an average physique. Example: "The detective was a man of moderate build, which allowed him to blend in easily with the crowd."

✓ Grammatically correct

Unknown

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is of moderate size, built of stone and has olives beneath it".

Wikipedia

Nevertheless, the moderate build-up of stocks in the major exporting countries in recent years, which constitute an import buffer against any sudden global production shortfall, is expected to represent at least 45 percent of the global total, which is close to the previous year and significantly above the average level registered in more recent years.

FAO

Darpa's Web site describes the program's goal as encouraging students to "jointly design and build systems of moderate complexity, such as mobile robots, go-carts, etc., in response to prize challenges".

The New York Times

After completing this course, students will be able to analyze, design, and build secure systems of moderate complexity.

University of California, Berkeley

Referring back to his initiative to build a movement of moderate Muslim voices, Musharraf said this must be done by partners who have credibility in the region, something that the U.S. does not currently enjoy.

The Guardian

It will also build up the forces of moderate rebels in Syria.

The Economist

However, where children have been inactive, 30 minutes of moderate activity per day is recommended and should be built up gradually.

Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health

"Finding ways to build in time to do at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity, five times a week, can be a challenge.

BBC

Others were built, also in fashion able quarters, and were so dear as to be beyond the reach of moderate incomes.

The New York Times

A sort of moderate tan.

The New York Times

The Leisurama homes, built in 1963 and 1964, were the first heavily marketed vacation and retirement housing development, aimed at people of moderate means.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a person or object, ensure "of moderate build" is followed by a noun that clearly identifies what you are describing (e.g. "of moderate build and height").

Common error

While grammatically correct, "of moderate build" can sound stilted in modern English. Opt for simpler, more direct alternatives like "average build" or "medium build" especially in informal writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "of moderate build" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase. It modifies a noun, providing information about its size or structure. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Missing

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "of moderate build" is a grammatically sound, albeit uncommon, way to describe something of average size or structure. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's correct and usable, but consider more direct alternatives for modern writing. The phrase is most frequently found in neutral contexts. Related phrases like "of medium build" or "of average build" might be more suitable for contemporary usage. While correct, its infrequent use means it's important to choose your words carefully based on the audience and desired tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

of medium build

Replaces "moderate" with "medium", offering a synonym that maintains the same connotation of average size.

of average build

Substitutes "moderate" with "average", emphasizing the typical or common nature of the physique.

moderately built

Changes the structure to an adverb-adjective form, keeping the meaning similar but with a different grammatical construction.

of balanced physique

Focuses on the harmony and proportionality of the body, suggesting an aesthetic aspect beyond mere size.

of regular build

Uses "regular" to indicate a standard or typical body shape, avoiding extremes.

with an average physique

Rephrases the expression to highlight the characteristic of having a standard or unremarkable body.

of unremarkable stature

Shifts the focus to height and overall presence, suggesting nothing stands out about the person's size.

of ordinary proportions

Emphasizes the typical and unexceptional nature of the body's measurements.

not overly large or small

Defines the physique by negating extremes, indicating it falls within a normal range.

possessing a normal body structure

More technically describes having body dimensions that are within expected limits.

FAQs

What does "of moderate build" mean?

The phrase "of moderate build" describes someone or something that has an average size or structure. It indicates that the subject is neither excessively large nor noticeably small.

What can I say instead of "of moderate build"?

You can use alternatives like "of medium build", "of average build", or "moderately built" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "of moderate build" or "average build"?

Both phrases are correct, but "average build" is often considered more straightforward and commonly used in contemporary English. The choice depends on the desired tone and context.

Can "of moderate build" be used to describe objects, not just people?

Yes, "of moderate build" can describe objects as well as people. It suggests that the object has a size or structure that is neither too large nor too small, fitting within a normal range.