ENGLISH
REFERENCE

build up

idiom
Meaning

To accumulate: to increase incrementally or continually.


Examples
SIMPLE

Stress can build up if you do not take breaks.

CONTEXTUAL

If you do not clean your room, the dust will build up over time.

COMPLEX

As the deadline approached, the pressure began to build up, forcing the team to work through the night to finish the project.

Anchors to
Related idioms7entries
  1. 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.

  2. 02

    build a case

    to compile evidence that supports a charge against someone.

  3. 03

    build bridges

    Often followed by between or to: to establish friendly relations or links.

  4. 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.

  5. 05

    build character

    To improve a person's character by developing personality traits such as resilience or responsibility.

  6. 06

    build on sand

    To put something in an unstable position by failing to give it a secure foundation.

  7. 07

    build the plane while flying it

    To develop one's approach or strategy to a project while carrying out that project, and not beforehand.

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