build
- 01 A1 Beginner
v.to make something by putting parts or materials together.
v.to construct a physical structure by combining materials or components.
Simple“They are going to build a new library in the center of town.”
In context“The developers plan to build a sustainable residential complex using recycled materials and energy-efficient technologies.”
UsageOften used with 'out of' or 'from' to describe materials.
- 02 B1 Intermediate
v.to make something stronger or bigger over time.
v.to increase or strengthen something through a gradual process of addition or development.
Simple“You need to exercise regularly to build your muscles.”
In context“The startup worked hard to build a loyal customer base before expanding into international markets.”
UsageCommonly used with abstract nouns like 'reputation', 'confidence', or 'momentum'.
Synonyms - 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
v.to turn computer code into a working program.
v.to convert source code into a standalone software artefact that can be run on a computer.
Simple“The team needs to build the latest version of the app before testing it.”
In context“Automated scripts build the project every night to ensure that new code changes do not break the existing functionality.”
Synonyms - 04 B1 Intermediate
n.the size and shape of a person's body.
n.the physical proportions or constitution of a human body.
Simple“The suspect was described as a tall man with a slim build.”
In context“His athletic build made him a natural choice for the rowing team, as he possessed both the reach and the power required.”
- 05 C1 Advanced
n.a specific version of a computer program while it is being made.
n.a particular version of a software product, often identified by a number, produced during the development cycle.
Simple“We are currently testing the alpha build of the new game.”
In context“The developers released a stable build to the public after fixing the critical bugs found in the previous beta version.”
- 06 C1 Advanced
n.the specific set of skills and items you choose for a character in a video game.
n.the specific combination of equipment, statistics, and abilities chosen for a player character in a role-playing or strategy game.
Simple“I am trying a new build that focuses on speed rather than strength.”
In context“The community forums are full of players debating the most effective build for defeating the final boss on the hardest difficulty.”
Synonyms
Usage build new · builds on previous · build knowledge
Etymology tree Proto-West Germanic *buþlijan Old English bytlan Middle English bylden English build From Middle English bilden, bulden, bylden, from Old English byldan and bytlan, bytlian (“to build”), from Proto-West Germanic buþlijan (“to build”), from Proto-Germanic buþlą, bōþlą (“house, dwelling, farm”), from Proto-Indo-European bʰuH- (“to become, grow, thrive, be, live, dwell”). Related to Old English botl (“building, house”). More at bottle.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.