slender build

USAGE SUMMARY

"slender build" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use the phrase to describe someone's physical appearance. For example, "She had a tall, slender build and was the picture of elegance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

Their slender build facilitates running through reeds and marsh grasses.

Encyclopedia Britannica

His slender build did not diminish his defensive prowess.

The New York Times

These birds, with slender build and long, pointed tail, resemble parakeets and are often so called.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He also has the slender build that is best suited for flying on skis.

The New Yorker

Upstairs we run into Dan, an Irish-American with red hair and a slender build.

The New York Times

With his slender build, long black hair and choreographic podium manner, he exudes a quiet charisma.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

They had light eyes with long eyelashes, thin pouty lips, narrow noses and slender builds.

Huffington Post

Albertosaurines are characterized by more slender builds, lower skulls, and proportionately longer tibiae than tyrannosaurines.

Wikipedia

Compared with these robust tyrannosaurines, albertosaurines had slender builds, with proportionately smaller skulls and longer bones of the lower leg (tibia) and feet (metatarsals and phalanges).

Wikipedia

Compared to the tyrannosaurines, albertosaurines had slender builds, with proportionately smaller, lower skulls and longer bones of the lower leg (tibia) and feet (metatarsals and phalanges).

Wikipedia

In his official report, Dr. Helpern wrote, "The body is that of an adult white woman, scale weight ninety-five pounds, five feet and one inch tall, slender frame, slight build.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's physical characteristics, use "slender build" to convey a sense of grace, agility, or elegance, especially when contrasting it with strength or robustness. For example, "Despite his "slender build", he possessed surprising strength."

Common error

While "slender build" is acceptable, consider more formal alternatives like "lean physique" or "slight frame" in professional or academic writing to maintain a polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slender build" functions as a noun phrase used to describe a physical attribute. It serves as an adjectival modifier when describing a person or animal, as exemplified in Ludwig's examples from encyclopedias and news articles.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Encyclopedias

21%

Wiki

19%

Less common in

Science

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "slender build" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a thin or delicate physique. According to Ludwig, it's used across various contexts, particularly in news media, encyclopedias, and wikis. While generally neutral in tone, it's advisable to consider more formal alternatives like "lean physique" in professional or academic writing. Keep in mind that "slender build" conveys a sense of grace or agility, and its usage is consistent with standard English conventions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slim physique

Replaces 'build' with 'physique' and 'slender' with 'slim', offering a slightly more refined tone.

slight frame

Uses 'frame' instead of 'build' and 'slight' instead of 'slender', emphasizing the skeletal structure.

lean body

Focuses on the lack of excess fat, highlighting a fit and trim appearance.

thin body type

More clinical and descriptive, suitable for formal contexts.

delicate figure

Suggests a more fragile and graceful appearance.

athletic but thin

Indicates a body that is both slender and fit.

of slight stature

Emphasizes overall smallness in height and build.

narrow frame

Highlights the narrowness of the bone structure.

lanky physique

Implies tallness and thinness, often with long limbs.

wiry frame

Suggests a slender but strong and resilient build.

FAQs

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

You can use "slender build" to describe someone's physical appearance. For instance, "The dancer's "slender build" allowed her to move with exceptional grace".

What are some alternatives to saying "slender build"?

You can use alternatives like "slim physique", "slight frame", or "lean body" depending on the context.

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

While "slender build" is generally acceptable, consider using more formal alternatives like "lean physique" or "slight stature" in formal contexts.

What does it mean when someone is described as having a "slender build"?

It means the person has a thin or delicate body structure, often implying a lack of bulk or muscle mass.