start to build

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "start to build" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating the beginning of a process or action related to construction, development, or creation. Example: "We need to start to build the new website by next month to meet our launch deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They start to build forts and city walls, in which they put buildings with Roman amenities.

Yale University

We start to build.

The New York Times - Sports

They start to build architecture.

Yale University

It's intimate, and you start to build from there.

The New York Times - Sports

Today, Catalonia will start to build itself a state.

Independent

"You start to build your confidence up," he said.

The Washington Post

When will they start to build the worlds strongest bite?

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

They start to build walls with headers and stretchers.

Yale University

"I start to build a hatred for the other team.

The New York Times - Sports

By giving it some thought, you can start to build a solid brand identity.

The Guardian

It wants to get into the television screen and start to build a relationship".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "start to build" to indicate the beginning of a long-term project or process, especially when emphasizing the initial phase.

Common error

Avoid using "start to build" when a simpler verb like "build" or "construct" is more direct and effective, especially in short, concise sentences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "start to build" functions as a verb phrase indicating the commencement of a construction or developmental activity. It expresses the initiation of a process that will lead to the creation or establishment of something, aligning with the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

25%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "start to build" is a grammatically correct and frequently used verb phrase that signals the beginning of a construction or developmental activity. As noted by Ludwig, it's employed across diverse contexts, from academic and scientific to news and general writing. While often interchangeable with simpler terms like "build", it offers emphasis on the initiation phase. Ludwig's analysis points to its versatile function in setting the stage for ongoing processes, making it a valuable tool in conveying the commencement of various endeavors.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

begin to construct

Focuses on the initiation of a physical building process.

commence construction

Formal alternative emphasizing the beginning of a building project.

initiate development

Highlights the start of a process that leads to growth or advancement.

begin creating

Emphasizes the act of bringing something new into existence.

lay the foundation

Focuses on the initial stage that supports future development.

set about building

Suggests a determined start to a construction task.

embark on construction

Formal alternative for beginning a building or development project.

establish the groundwork

Highlights the preparation and initial work for a larger project.

pioneer the creation

Emphasizes the innovative start of a creative endeavor.

kick-start the build

Informal alternative for quickly initiating a construction project.

FAQs

How can I use "start to build" in a sentence?

You can use "start to build" to describe the beginning of a construction project, relationship, or even a skill development process. For example: "They will "begin to construct" the new bridge next month".

What are some alternatives to saying "start to build"?

Alternatives include "begin to construct", "lay the foundation", or "initiate development", depending on the specific context.

Is it redundant to say "start to build" instead of just "build"?

While "build" is often sufficient, "start to build" emphasizes the initial phase of the construction or development process. It is not strictly redundant, but consider whether the emphasis is necessary.

When is it most appropriate to use the phrase "start to build"?

The phrase "start to build" is most appropriate when you want to emphasize the initial stages of a project, relationship, or process, highlighting the beginning of a longer-term endeavor. Consider using "begin creating" or "commence construction" depending on the specific intent.