building - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
building Word Meanings
- a structure with walls and a roof
- the act of constructing something
- a process of developing something over time
building Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
building Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈbɪldɪŋ/
US
/ˈbɪldɪŋ/
building Word Etymology
The word 'building' is derived from the Old English 'bylding' (from 'byldan' meaning 'to build'). The Latin 'aedificare' (to make a structure) and Greek 'oikodomein' (to build a house) influenced its development. Imagine a towering structure rising up from blueprints to reality, symbolizing growth and progress.
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 InputReal Context
Building in English has two main senses: a structure with walls and a roof, and the act or process of creating something. As a noun for a structure, it can describe any edifice from a small house to a skyscraper, often in phrases like building materials or a tall building. As a gerund or noun form of the verb, it refers to the act of constructing, as in building a bridge or building a career. It can also describe development over time, for example building trust or building momentum. The word is common in both formal and everyday speech, with emphasis typically on the first syllable when used as a noun.
Usage Reminders
- Make separate example sentences for each meaning (structure, act, and process).
- Note common collocations like building materials or a tall building, building momentum, and building a relationship.
- Practice distinguishing noun vs gerund by paraphrasing.
- Pay attention to context to know whether building refers to a physical structure or an action.
- Listen for the noun form in phrases like the building or a tall building.
- Record yourself speaking and compare with native usage.
Common Misconceptions
- Believing building only means a physical structure.
- Confusing the noun with the verb build in all contexts.
- Ignoring metaphorical uses like building trust or building momentum.
- Mistaking all collocations as literal buildings (e. g., building materials vs material building).
- Assuming buildings are always countable without context.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: English uses building for both a concrete object and an abstract process; learners should rely on context and collocations to choose the sense and beware of metaphorical uses like building trust.
Learning Tips
- Make separate example sentences for each meaning (structure, act, and process).
- Note common collocations like building materials or a tall building, building momentum, and building a relationship.
- Practice distinguishing noun vs gerund by paraphrasing.
- Pay attention to context to know whether building refers to a physical structure or an action.
- Listen for the noun form in phrases like the building or a tall building.
- Record yourself speaking and compare with native usage.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'building'?
A.A feeling
B.A color
C.A structure
D.A food
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'building' used correctly?
A.Let's go building at the park.
B.She is building a bookshelf.
C.The building is yellow.
D.He is building with sadness.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'building'?
A.Destruction
B.Obstruction
C.Demolition
D.Structure
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is the opposite of 'building'?
A.Destroying
B.Expanding
C.Renovating
D.Strengthening
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you see a building?
A.School
B.Forest
C.Ocean
D.Desert
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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