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REFERENCE

construct

v. · n.
US //ˈkɑnstɹəkt// con·struct
  1. 1 to build physically (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    to build something large or complex by putting different parts together.

    to build or assemble a physical structure from various components. Transitive — requires a direct object.

    Example

    The company plans to construct a new bridge over the river next year.

    Example

    The engineers had to construct a temporary support system before they could begin repairing the damaged foundation of the skyscraper.
  2. 2 to create an idea or sentence (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Academic

    to create an argument, a sentence, or a theory by organizing your thoughts.

    to formulate or compose an abstract entity, such as a logical argument or a grammatical sentence, by arranging constituent parts.

    Example

    You need to construct a clear argument for your essay.

    Example

    The philosopher spent years attempting to construct a coherent ethical framework that could be applied to modern technological dilemmas.
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  1. 3 to draw a shape (v.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Math

    to draw a geometric shape accurately using tools like a ruler.

    to draw a geometric figure according to precise specifications using mathematical instruments.

    Example

    The teacher showed us how to construct a perfect hexagon using a compass.

    Example

    Students were required to construct a series of intersecting arcs to determine the exact centre of the irregular polygon.
  2. 4 an abstract idea (n.)
    C1 Advanced Academic

    an idea or theory that is created by people rather than being a physical fact.

    a complex idea or mental model formed from a number of simpler elements. Often used to describe social or psychological theories.

    Example

    Many researchers believe that gender is a social construct rather than just a biological one.

    Example

    The study examines the psychological construct of 'grit' and its impact on long-term academic achievement in urban schools.

    Usage

    The stress is on the first syllable (CON-struct) when used as a noun.
  3. 5 artificial DNA (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Technical Science

    a piece of genetic material made in a lab to be put into a cell.

    an artificially created segment of nucleic acid designed for transplantation into a target cell or tissue.

    Example

    The scientists inserted the DNA construct into the bacteria to see if it would glow.

    Example

    The researchers developed a novel genetic construct to enhance the expression of specific proteins within the transgenic plant species.

Origin

Borrowed from Latin cōnstrūctus, from cōnstruō (“to heap together”), from com- (“together”) + struō (“to heap up, pile”). Doublet of construe.

Word family

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