to build upon something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to build upon something" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the idea of developing or expanding on an existing concept, idea, or foundation. Example: "In her research, she aims to build upon the findings of previous studies to further explore the topic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"It is really interesting to build upon something that my father has started.

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

He started fifth, but noted that a runner-up finish was something to build upon.

The New York Times

But we did need to perform and give ourselves something to build upon".

The Guardian - Sport

"This is really something to build upon the next few years," said Eric Romanino, the high school's director of physical education and athletics.

The New York Times

Italy and their new coach, Conor O'Shea, conversely, have something tangible to build upon and in Carlo Canna an increasingly reassuring presence around whom to build.

The Guardian - Sport

This will enable a clearer route to resolution because you recognize that there is something positive to build upon.

WikiHow

The other interpretation — the one preferred by Mr. Romney's campaign when I talked to staffers last week in New Hampshire — is that the 25 percent represented a base or floor of support for Mr. Romney, something for him to build upon.

The New York Times

"For the team and our confidence, that's something we can continue to build upon," Schmid told reporters in the post-game conference.

The Guardian - Sport

You've got to find something you enjoy doing and make that your fitness foundation to build upon.

Huffington Post

"We need to build upon it".

The New York Times

We have to build upon it".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to build upon something" when you want to express the idea of using an existing foundation or idea as a starting point for further development. For example, "The new software will build upon the existing framework, adding enhanced features and improved performance."

Common error

While "to build upon something" is widely accepted, consider more formal alternatives like "to augment" or "to enhance" in highly academic or professional writing to maintain a sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to build upon something" primarily functions as a verb phrase, often used to indicate the action of expanding, developing, or improving an existing idea, concept, or foundation. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in a variety of contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science & Research

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to build upon something" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to describe the process of expanding or improving an existing foundation. Ludwig AI attests to its correctness and usability. It is most commonly found in news and media, wiki entries, and scientific research, making it appropriate for a wide range of contexts. While acceptable in most situations, consider more formal alternatives in highly professional settings. Remember to use this phrase when you want to emphasize the idea of leveraging existing resources for future development.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to improve upon something

Highlights the act of making something better than it already is.

to expand on something

Focuses on adding more details or breadth to an existing idea or concept.

to develop something further

Highlights the progression and advancement of a particular subject or project.

to elaborate on something

Implies providing more detailed information about a previously mentioned topic.

to add to something

Suggests contributing additional elements or features to an existing entity.

to augment something

Emphasizes enhancing or increasing the value or effectiveness of something.

to enhance something

Focuses on improving the quality or desirability of an existing subject.

to refine something

Suggests making subtle but significant improvements to an existing project or idea.

to take something to the next level

Expresses the idea of elevating something to a higher standard or degree.

to progress something

Implies moving something forward in its development or execution.

FAQs

How can I use "to build upon something" in a sentence?

You can use "to build upon something" to describe expanding or developing an existing idea or concept. For example, "The company plans "to build upon something" innovative."

What phrases are similar to "to build upon something"?

Similar phrases include "to expand on something", "to develop something further", or "to improve upon something".

Is it better to use "to build upon something" or "to build on something"?

"To build on something" is a more concise and equally acceptable alternative to "to build upon something". The choice often depends on the desired level of formality and personal preference.

When is it appropriate to use "to build upon something" in writing?

It's appropriate "to build upon something" in various contexts where you want to convey the idea of using an existing foundation as a starting point for further advancement, whether in academic research, business strategy, or personal development.