1
Extend research
Develop a new study from earlier findings.
Example
The project builds on decades of climate research.
build on
/ˌbɪld ˈɒn/ · BILD ONdevelopment phrase
Use an existing idea, result, or achievement as a basis for further development.
Use build on to signal this exact relationship between ideas: use an existing idea, result, or achievement as a basis for further development.
What build on Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Add to an argument
Use an established point as a foundation for another.
Example
The second chapter builds on the distinction introduced earlier.
3
Develop an achievement
Advance from work already completed.
Example
The redesign builds on the success of the pilot programme.
Use build on Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The project builds on decades of climate research.
The second chapter builds on the distinction introduced earlier.
The redesign builds on the success of the pilot programme.
Precision Matters
Build on overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
build on
vs.Signals use an existing idea, result, or achievement as a basis for further development.
be predicated on
Means be based or founded on a premise, condition, or assumption.
build on
vs.Signals use an existing idea, result, or achievement as a basis for further development.
advance
Means to put forward a claim, proposal, or explanation for consideration.
build on
vs.Signals use an existing idea, result, or achievement as a basis for further development.
replicate
Means to copy, reproduce, or repeat something closely.
build on
vs.Signals use an existing idea, result, or achievement as a basis for further development.
undermine
Means to weaken, erode, or reduce confidence in something.
Test build on in Context
The experiment extends earlier work rather than simply duplicating it.
1
The new experiment will ___ the pilot study by testing the same mechanism across a much larger population.