suspense builds

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "suspense builds" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where tension or excitement is increasing, often in the context of storytelling or dramatic situations. Example: "As the plot thickens, the suspense builds, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

The reviewer thought that the plot was "marred by the same preciousness of its predecessor", but praised the plot for its "enhanced complexity" and suspenseful writing, saying that "a small plot twist is refreshing and suspense builds steadily towards the final installment".

Wikipedia

The suspense builds gradually.

The New York Times - Books

So that's where the suspense builds.

Cornell University

At the Olympics, the suspense builds.

The New York Times - Sports

Every moment, the suspense builds -- and so do the ratings.

The New York Times

As the suspense builds, other journal entries give us hope.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

The crowd moaned as the suspense built.

The New York Times

Any admission story has suspense built in.

The New York Times

SELDOM has so much suspense built over a foregone conclusion.

The Economist

The natural suspense built into each one magnetizes them.

The New York Times

Two colts acted up, and one was scratched at the gate as the suspense built.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "suspense builds" to effectively signal a rising sense of anticipation or tension in your writing. It works well when describing the gradual unfolding of events in a story or situation.

Common error

Avoid using "suspense builds" in situations where the outcome is already obvious. Overusing it in predictable scenarios can diminish its impact and make your writing feel cliché.

Linguistic Context

"Suspense builds" functions as a phrase to describe a gradual increase in tension or anticipation. This phrase is commonly used in narratives to heighten the reader's or viewer's engagement. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "suspense builds" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that effectively conveys a sense of increasing tension or anticipation. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is appropriate for use in written English. It is particularly common in news and media, as well as academic and wiki contexts. While versatile, it's important to avoid overuse, especially in predictable situations, to maintain its impact. Alternatives like "tension mounts" or "anticipation grows" can offer nuanced variations to express similar ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tension mounts

Emphasizes a gradual increase in stress or strain, similar to suspense.

anticipation grows

Focuses on the increasing expectation of something about to happen.

excitement intensifies

Highlights the rising level of enthusiasm and thrill.

the plot thickens

Indicates increasing complexity and intrigue in a narrative.

stakes are raised

Highlights the increasing risks and potential consequences.

pressure increases

Focuses on the mounting stress and demands of a situation.

anxiety escalates

Emphasizes the rising level of worry and unease.

the situation intensifies

Highlights an increasing level of emotion.

drama unfolds

Suggests a gradual revelation of events

the atmosphere heightens

Implies rising level of intensity.

FAQs

How can I use "suspense builds" in a sentence?

You can use "suspense builds" to describe how anticipation or tension increases over time. For instance, "As the detective neared the truth, the suspense builds, gripping the audience."

What are some alternatives to "suspense builds"?

Some alternatives include "tension mounts", "anticipation grows", or "excitement intensifies". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "suspense is building"?

Yes, "suspense is building" is also grammatically correct and conveys a similar meaning. It emphasizes the ongoing process of suspense increasing.

What's the difference between "suspense builds" and "tension rises"?

"Suspense builds" often refers to the gradual increase of anticipation in a narrative or unfolding situation, while "tension rises" can describe a broader sense of stress or strain increasing in any context.