under construction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "under construction" is a grammatically correct phrase to use in written English.
You can use this phrase when referring to something that is currently being built or renovated in order to signify that it is not yet complete. For example, you could say "The bridge is currently under construction and is expected to be finished by the end of the year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Under construction.

Stanford University

A glass skyscraper under construction.

The New York Times

A school is under construction.

The New York Times

Expensive homes are under construction.

The New York Times - Sports

Gas grids are under construction.

The New York Times

Another ten are under construction.

The Economist

Another 310 are under construction.

The New York Times

D.K.: Everything's under construction.

The New York Times - Magazine

Pylos was under construction.

The New York Times

Newport's footbridge under construction.

The Guardian

It's under construction.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "under construction" in web design, provide an estimated completion date or a way for users to receive updates.

Common error

Avoid using "under construction" to describe abstract or non-physical things that are simply being planned or thought about. Instead, use phrases like "in development" or "in the works".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "under construction" functions as a prepositional phrase typically modifying a noun or pronoun. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's used to describe something that is currently in the process of being built or renovated. Examples from Ludwig show it describing buildings, websites, and even abstract concepts in a metaphorical sense.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Formal & Business

18%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "under construction" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase, primarily functioning to indicate that something is currently being built or renovated. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. Examples gathered by Ludwig show it frequently appearing in contexts related to News & Media, Formal & Business, and Wiki sources, reflecting its versatility across various registers. While its core meaning remains consistent, it's crucial to avoid misusing it for abstract concepts or situations where "in development" or "in the works" would be more appropriate. As evidenced by numerous authoritative sources, including The New York Times and The Economist, "under construction" is a reliable and easily understood way to communicate the ongoing state of a project or structure.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

being built

Focuses on the ongoing process of building, similar to "under construction".

in the process of being built

Emphasizes the process aspect, highlighting that the building is currently underway.

currently being erected

Refers specifically to the act of raising or building something upright.

in development

Implies a broader sense of progress, suitable for projects beyond physical construction.

work in progress

Highlights the unfinished nature of the task or project.

in the works

Indicates that something is being planned or prepared.

being renovated

Specifically describes the process of restoring or improving an existing structure.

being remodeled

Similar to renovated but focuses on changing the structure or form of something.

not yet completed

Directly states that something is unfinished, without specifying the reason.

still in progress

Emphasizes that the activity is ongoing and not yet finished.

FAQs

How can I use "under construction" in a sentence?

You can use "under construction" to describe anything that is currently being built or assembled. For example, "The new library is "under construction" and will open next year."

What are some alternatives to saying "under construction"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "being built", "in development", or "work in progress" as alternatives to "under construction".

Is it appropriate to use "under construction" for a website?

Yes, it's common to use "under construction" for a website or webpage that is not yet complete. However, it's best to provide additional information or an estimated completion date.

What is the difference between "under construction" and "under renovation"?

"Under construction" typically refers to something being newly built, while "under renovation" implies that an existing structure is being repaired or improved.