increase gradually
If you save a little money each month, your savings will build up over time.
build up — 4 meanings
Same words, different jobs. Compare the meanings side by side so you know which one fits the situation.
phrasal verb4 meanings
build upsame phrase
Which one do you mean?
develop strength or confidence
Regular exercise can help you build up your strength after an illness.
praise or promote
The manager really built up the new project in the meeting.
create suspense
The director skillfully built up suspense throughout the film, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.
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Meanings in detail
1. increase gradually
B1neutralboth
To make something become larger or greater over time, often slowly.
If you save a little money each month, your savings will build up over time.
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B2neutralboth
To gradually make someone or something stronger, healthier, or more confident.
Regular exercise can help you build up your strength after an illness.
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B2informalspoken
To talk about someone or something in a very positive way to make them seem important or impressive.
The manager really built up the new project in the meeting.
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C1neutralboth
To gradually increase tension, anticipation, or excitement, especially in a story, conversation, or event, so that people are eager to see what happens next.
The director skillfully built up suspense throughout the film, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.
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