English Reference

Word

builders

US/ˈbɪɫdɝz/

UK/bˈɪldəz/

Definitions

01construction workers

A2

n. people who build or repair houses and other structures.

n. plural of builder; individuals whose occupation involves the construction or repair of buildings.

“The builders arrived early this morning to start working on the new roof.”

“The builders were forced to halt construction when they discovered that the original foundations were significantly weaker than the blueprints suggested.”

Synonyms

construction workerscontractors

02strong tea

C1

n. a strong, inexpensive cup of black tea with milk and often sugar.

n. an abbreviation for 'builders' tea'; a strong, inexpensive variety of black tea typically served with milk.

“I'm exhausted; I really need a proper mug of builders.”

“After a long morning in the cold, the crew sat down for a quick break and a round of builders to warm up.”

British English · Informal

Usage

Usually uncountable when referring to the drink itself.

Teaching tip

This is a very common British colloquialism; it implies the tea is strong and functional rather than fancy or delicate.

Synonyms

This entry

Level
A2 · Elementary
Frequency
Frequent
Updated

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English Reference