# construct

/ˈkɑnstɹəkt/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/construct
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. to build physically

verb · CEFR B2

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

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

- The company plans to construct a new bridge over the river next year.
- The engineers had to construct a temporary support system before they could begin repairing the damaged foundation of the skyscraper.

### 2. to create an idea or sentence

verb · CEFR B2 · Academic

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

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

- You need to construct a clear argument for your essay.
- The philosopher spent years attempting to construct a coherent ethical framework that could be applied to modern technological dilemmas.

### 3. to draw a shape

verb · CEFR C1 · Technical

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

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

- The teacher showed us how to construct a perfect hexagon using a compass.
- Students were required to construct a series of intersecting arcs to determine the exact centre of the irregular polygon.

### 4. an abstract idea

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic

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

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

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

### 5. artificial DNA

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

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

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

- The scientists inserted the DNA construct into the bacteria to see if it would glow.
- The researchers developed a novel genetic construct to enhance the expression of specific proteins within the transgenic plant species.

## Examples

- Time is often described as a social construct.
- Researchers defined 'intelligence' as a multi-layered construct that includes both logic and emotional awareness.
- The philosopher argued that our understanding of gender is a cultural construct rather than a biological inevitability, shaped by centuries of evolving social norms and expectations.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.