WordLens

build up

1 of 1verb
/ˈbɪld ʌp/
Forms:builds up,building up,built up,built up
1

to become more powerful, intense, or larger in quantity

B2
  • As the tension builds up, everyone anticipates the final match.
  • Confidence tends to build up when you achieve small goals.
  • Pressure can build up in a closed system if not released properly.
  • The excitement is starting to build up as the concert date approaches.
  • Over time, clutter can build up in the attic if not addressed.
2

to make something more powerful, intense, or larger in quantity

transitive
  • She built up her reputation as a reliable professional over the years.
  • The organization aims to build up a solid foundation for its charitable initiatives.
  • The storm continued to build up strength over the ocean.
  • We need to build up our savings for the future.
Synonyms:
progresswork upbuild
3

(in a military context) to strengthen one's forces and resources in anticipation of a potential conflict

transitive
  • The nation is building up its military in response to regional tensions.
  • The military is building up its cyber warfare capabilities.
  • The army is building up its ammunition stockpile.
  • The commander aims to build up the air force for a swift response.
  • The general decided to build his forces up before engaging in the conflict.
Synonyms:
fortifygirdarm
Antonyms:
disarm
4

to make something available or usable for a different purpose

transitive
  • We need to build up the website to attract more visitors.
  • The government is investing in building up infrastructure in rural areas.
  • He's working on building up his skills for a career change.
  • They built up the outdated software for modern compatibility.
  • The company is building up its online presence through social media.
Synonyms:
develop
5

to increase physical strength

transitive
  • He decided to build his muscles up by lifting weights regularly.
  • The fitness instructor helped the clients build up their strength with a customized workout plan.
  • Progressive overload in strength training helps build up muscles over time.
  • Regular weightlifting is essential to build up muscle mass.
  • She began to build her core muscles up with targeted abdominal workouts.
Synonyms:
work upramp upbuild
6

to support the growth or success of someone or something

transitive
  • The team worked hard to build up their reputation in the industry.
  • We need to build the company up by investing in marketing and innovation.
  • The positive reviews helped build up the restaurant's popularity.
  • The celebrity knew that the magazine interview was designed to build her up for public sympathy before the scandalous revelations.
  • The coach built up the rookie player's confidence, only to bench him in the crucial game.
7

to put components or materials together to create something

transitive
  • The mechanic plans to build up the car engine by adding new components.
  • The DIY enthusiast is eager to build up a customized computer from individual parts.
  • The engineer will build up the prototype of the machine for testing.
  • The team will build up the website by integrating new features and functionalities.
  • He aims to build the model airplane up with precision and attention to detail.