"build up" vs "building up"

Question

"build up" vs "building up"

Both "build up" and "building up" are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "Build up" is a phrasal verb that means to accumulate or increase gradually, while "building up" is the present participle form of the verb "build" used in continuous tenses.

Last Updated: March 30, 2024

Use "build up" when you want to express the idea of something increasing or accumulating over time.

Examples:

She needs to build up her savings before buying a house.
The tension between the two countries continued to build up.
He decided to build up his strength by exercising regularly.
The company aims to build up its customer base through marketing campaigns.
It's important to build up trust in a relationship.

Alternatives:

accumulate
increase gradually
amass
grow
develop

Use "building up" when you want to describe an ongoing process of construction or development.

Examples:

They are building up a new shopping center in the city.
The team is building up its strength for the upcoming competition.
She is building up her portfolio by taking on new projects.
The organization is building up its resources to support the community.
He is building up his endurance by training for a marathon.

Alternatives:

constructing
developing
forming
creating
growing

Answer 1

build up

This is a correct phrasal verb used to indicate the gradual accumulation or increase of something.

Answer 2

building up

This is the present participle form of the verb "build" used in continuous tenses.

"build up" vs "building up"

build up

building up

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