slim build

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'slim build' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe the physical characteristics of a person, for example: He was tall, with a slim build and blue eyes.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

As was his slim build and pale blue eyes.

The New York Times

They share a slim build and dark brown eyes.

The New York Times

Whitlock is described as a white man of slim build.

The Guardian

Paul was a sharp looker too, 5-foot-10, slim build, dark hair, deep brown eyes.

The New Yorker

She is 5ft 4in and of slim build, with long, dark brown hair.

Independent

He appeared to be of slim build and was carrying a brown-coloured bag.

Independent

The third is described as in his early 20s, 5ft 10in and of slim build.

Independent

The man is described as white, 6ft 1in and of slim build, with short dark hair.

The Guardian

The woman is described as white, 5ft 7in and of slim build, with long auburn hair.

The Guardian

He had dark hair and dark eyes, and he was of a slim build.

The New Yorker

I had dark hair and dark eyes, and I was of a slim build.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's appearance, use "slim build" in conjunction with other details such as height, hair color, and eye color to create a more vivid and accurate image.

Common error

While "slim build" is a common descriptor, avoid using it repetitively in a single piece of writing. Vary your descriptions with synonyms like "lean", "slender", or "thin" to maintain reader engagement and avoid sounding monotonous.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slim build" functions primarily as a descriptive adjective phrase, modifying a noun (often a person) to provide information about their physical characteristics. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is common for specifying body type in descriptions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "slim build" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a person's physical appearance, indicating a body type that is slender and lean. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. As demonstrated by Ludwig's examples, it is frequently used in news reports, descriptive passages, and even scientific contexts. While neutral in register, it's important to use it thoughtfully and avoid overuse. Related phrases such as "slender physique" and "lean body" can provide variety in writing. When describing an individual, remember to include other relevant details like height, hair color and eye color to give a fuller picture. The frequency of "slim build" is considered very common.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slender physique

Emphasizes the overall form and shape of the body, implying elegance and grace.

lean body

Highlights the absence of excess fat, suggesting fitness and muscularity.

thin frame

Focuses on the skeletal structure, emphasizing the narrowness and delicacy of the body.

slight figure

Suggests a delicate and small overall body size, often used for women.

athletic build

Implies a toned and fit body, suggesting regular exercise and physical activity.

wiry frame

Indicates a lean but strong and resilient body, often associated with endurance.

svelte figure

Emphasizes elegance and attractiveness in a slim and graceful body shape, more formal.

underweight

Focuses only on weight, and indicates an unhealthy low weight.

small stature

Highlights short height and size. Includes height and build.

petite build

Highlights daintiness and smallness, commonly applied to women and implying a slender form.

FAQs

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

You can use "slim build" to describe someone's physical appearance, for example: "The suspect was described as being of "slim build", approximately 6 feet tall, with dark hair."

What are some alternatives to "slim build"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "slender physique", "lean body", or "thin frame".

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

Yes, "slim build" is a neutral and generally acceptable term for describing someone's physical appearance in formal writing, such as news reports or descriptive passages in literature.

What is the difference between "slim build" and "skinny"?

"Slim build" is generally considered a more neutral and polite term than "skinny", which can sometimes carry a negative connotation implying someone is unhealthily thin. "Slim build" focuses on the overall body shape in a more objective manner.