build up
phrase B2
Plain meaning
to increase, develop, or strengthen gradually
Exam-register meaning
In exam writing, it can express to increase, develop, or strengthen gradually in a clearer or more formal way.
In context
naturalThe discussion gave us a useful example of build up.
examPolicy makers must consider build up when evaluating long-term social and economic outcomes.
Common collocations
build upa clear example of build upuse build up appropriately
Watch out
Do not change the key word order in “build up”; collocations sound natural because the words travel together.