build on sand
To put something in an unstable position by failing to give it a secure foundation.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“Their new business plan is built on sand.”
“A relationship built on sand rarely lasts for very long.”
“You build your future on sand when you ignore your health.”
“Because they ignored the basic legal requirements, the entire project was built on sand and soon collapsed.”
“If you try to learn advanced physics without understanding basic math, your knowledge is built on sand and will eventually fail you.”
“The manager realized the department's success was built on sand because it relied entirely on a single client who might leave.”
“The software company discovered their new app was built on sand after the main server crashed during the first week.”
“By basing his entire political platform on empty promises rather than concrete policy, the candidate ensured his campaign was built on sand.”
From the Parable of the Wise and the Foolish Builders in Matthew 7:24–27. The imagery concerns the inherent instability of a structure raised without a foundation, specifically contrasting one built upon rock with one built upon sand.
- 01
build a better mousetrap
To create a new product, method, or idea that is better than an existing version of something already common or widely used.
- 02
build a case
to compile evidence that supports a charge against someone.
- 03
build bridges
Often followed by between or to: to establish friendly relations or links.
- 04
build castles in the air
To have any desire, idea, or plan that is unlikely to be realized; to imagine visionary projects or schemes; to have an idle fancy or a pipe dream; to daydream.
- 05
build character
To improve a person's character by developing personality traits such as resilience or responsibility.
- 06
build the plane while flying it
To develop one's approach or strategy to a project while carrying out that project, and not beforehand.
- 07
build up
To accumulate: to increase incrementally or continually.
- 08
built different
Able to do things which others cannot; extremely talented or unusual.
Last updated August 10, 2026