of small build

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "of small build" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used with any noun to describe an object or person of small physical stature. Example sentence: My brother is of small build compared to the other members of our family.

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Procedures were developed for their editing yielding accurate values of small 13C, 13C coupling constants.

Journal of Magnetic Resonance

Investors like Ron Conway, Dave McClure, and even Clavier make a lot of small bets 60, 100, or more per fund hoping a few of them will pay off massively.

TechCrunch

In addition, this article includes a comparison of the performance of these large FFUs with that of smaller, 122-cm×61-cm (or 4-ft×2-ft) FFUs that were previously tested.

Building and Environment

The contribution of adaptive mutations is small [25], [33].

Plosone

The tool consists of small (2 × 2 × 0.2 cm) striated polymer plates coated with synthetic pure ferrihydrite or As-doped ferrihydrite (Fh As).

Applied Geochemistry

In chalky West Sussex in 1985, a burst water main caused an alarming rash of small 1m- to 4m-wide sinkholes to appear in Fontwell.

The Guardian

Founders are usually able to negotiate exceptions from the right of first refusal, for transfers to family members or trusts for estate planning purposes, and, less often, for the sale of small (5%-15%) stakes.

Forbes

Therefore, the diagnostic implications and potential clinical benefit of small 2 × 2 × 2 mm3voxels, in terms of small lesion detection and sensitivity, remain unknown.

EJNMMI Research

Compared to the untreated controls, treated tumours, particularly after 5 days, had higher numbers of small (50 × 50 μm) necrotic regions.

EJNMMI Research

However, its practical use is difficult for filtration and the recovery of small TiO2 particles [17].

International Nano Letters

The t1/2 of small Atx1[Q85]GFP accumulations (median = 48 seconds) was significantly lower than the t1/2 of small Atx1[Q2]GFP accumulations (median = 102.4 seconds) (P = 0.001), measured in respectively 8 and 11 bleaching experiments in individual cells.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context and audience when using this phrase. While generally acceptable, more descriptive alternatives might be preferable for greater clarity or impact.

Common error

Avoid using "of small build" when intending to convey weakness or frailty. While small build might imply less muscle mass, it doesn't necessarily indicate physical weakness. Choose more appropriate terms if that is the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "of small build" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase. It modifies a noun (often a person) by specifying their physical characteristics. The phrase indicates a slender or delicate physique. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Missing

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "of small build" is a grammatically sound way to describe someone with a slender or delicate physique. Ludwig AI affirms its validity. Although the term isn't particularly common, and there are currently no explicit examples in the search data, its meaning is clear and easily understood. When writing, consider the context and audience to decide whether "of small build" or a more descriptive alternative better serves your purpose.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

small-bodied

This adjective directly describes having a small body, emphasizing the physical attribute.

petite

This adjective emphasizes daintiness and slenderness in addition to small size, typically used for women.

lightweight

This term focuses on the lack of weight, an attribute that can sometimes be associated with small build.

slight of frame

This alternative emphasizes the thinness or delicacy of the body's structure.

thinly built

This phrase highlights the lack of bulk or muscle mass.

delicate in stature

This suggests a fragile or graceful smallness.

of slender physique

Emphasizes the lean and narrow nature of the body.

compactly built

Suggests a small but sturdy build.

miniature in size

Focuses on the extremely small dimensions.

diminutive

This adjective indicates smallness and can suggest a certain charm or cuteness.

FAQs

How can I use "of small build" in a sentence?

You can use "of small build" to describe someone's physical appearance, for example: "The jockey was of small build, which gave him an advantage in the race."

What's a more common way to say "of small build"?

More common alternatives include "small-bodied", "petite" or "slight of frame" depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is "of small build" formal or informal?

The phrase "of small build" is generally considered neutral in formality, suitable for both casual and professional contexts. The register of the source often influences the perceived formality.

What does it mean to be "of small build"?

To be "of small build" means to have a slender or delicate physique, typically implying a frame that is not large or heavily muscled.