What are the definitions of “build up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Develop a company.
She BUILT the business UP from nothing into a market leader in less than a decade.
- 2Increase.
Tension has been BUILDING UP ever since the government passed the unpopular law.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “build up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb build up is to increase or develop something gradually over time. It can refer to the growth of a business, the increase of tension, or the development of a skill.
What are the different verb forms of “build up”?
| Root Verb | build up |
| Third Person Singular Present | builds up |
| Present Participle | building up |
| Simple Past | built up |
| Past Participle | built up |
Example
He wants to build up his savings for a new car.
Example
She builds up her strength by exercising every day.
Example
They are building up their reputation in the industry.
Example
He built up a successful business over the years.
Example
The company has built up a loyal customer base.
What kind of phrasal verb is “build up”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“build up” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
She built up her confidence by practicing public speaking.
Example
He built the business up from a small startup to a large corporation.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“build up” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She built up her confidence by practicing public speaking.
Example
He built the business up from a small startup to a large corporation.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “build up”?
Build up one's hopes
To make someone feel more optimistic or hopeful.
Example
Don't build up his hopes too much; the chances of success are still uncertain.
Good things to know
Does “build up” have an informal or formal tone?
Build up is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.
