build - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
build Word Meanings
- to construct something by putting parts together
- to create or develop something over time
- to form by combining materials
build Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
build Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/bɪld/
US
/bɪld/
build Word Etymology
Build = 'biuld' (Old English) → Middle English → Modern English. Imagine a construction site where workers are putting up a wall, combining bricks with concrete, representing the process of building a structure.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I set my hands on the edges of the blocks and push just enough to coax them into place. I move pieces, shift them a fraction, and adjust as the line forms. I turn the whole thing, hold my breath, and watch order rise from the jumble. Step by step I learn what building feels like through effort, choice, and small decisions.
Real Context
Build is a versatile verb used to describe physically assembling parts into a whole, as when you build a wall, a bookshelf, or a sculpture. It also covers gradual development over time, such as building a career, building experience, or building momentum in a project. Additionally, build can mean forming something by combining materials or ideas, for example building a model, building a theory, or building a plan from smaller steps. You’ll often see phrasal patterns like build on (to base one thing on another), build up (to increase or strengthen), and build from (to start from a given foundation). In contrast to verbs like construct (more formal) or create (broad), build emphasizes process and combination. Etymology traces back to Old English forms about forming unity.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Build is transitive; it usually takes a direct object when meaning physical construction.
- 2) Use build up to indicate growth or accumulation.
- 3) Build on or build from when describing steps or foundations.
- 4) Distinguish between build (process) and construct (often formal/large-scale).
- 5) Remember the past tense is built, not builded.
Common Misconceptions
- Think build only means making something physical.
- Confuse build with create or manufacture in all contexts.
- Use builded as the past tense; correct is built.
- Overlook phrasal verbs like build up and build on.
- Mistake build for 'grow' without effort or development.
Thinking Differences
Learners hear build as a flexible, process-oriented verb in English, so they often over-restrict it to tangible objects and neglect its abstract uses like building a career or momentum.
Learning Tips
- Practice both physical and abstract uses in sentences.
- memorize past tense: built (not builded).
- Pair with phrasal verbs: build up, build on, build from.
- Compare with construct and assemble to grasp nuance.
- Use visual imagery to remember forming from parts.
- Read varied contexts to see subtle collocations.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'build' correctly?
A.She decided to build a cake for her birthday party.
B.He went to the beach to build sandcastles.
C.The cat build the mouse in the garden.
D.Let's build a movie together.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'build'?
A.Destroy
B.Create
C.Eat
D.Sleep
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'build'?
A.Fix
B.Paint
C.Demolish
D.Read
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario of 'build'?
A.She baked cookies for the fundraiser.
B.He went for a run in the park.
C.They decided to build a house for their retirement.
D.They watched a movie together.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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