build on
phrasal verb·1 sense·particle on
Meanings
Use a previous success as a foundation for more
Why “on”? One thing supports another. A plan may need people, facts, money, or past success.
“They built on last year's success.”
“The second lesson builds on what students learned in the first.”
“Leo built on Maya's opening idea during the office presentation.”
Don't confuse with
Build on means use a previous success as a foundation for more. Build in means include something as a permanent part of a design.
Test yourself
“They built on last year's success.” What does it mean?
Nearby in the meaning map
Sink In connects verbs by particle pattern, contrast pairs, and shared base verbs.
build in
A contrast learners often mix up
Include something as a permanent part of a design
act on
Same on pattern: support
Take action because of advice or information
base on
Same on pattern: support
Use something as the foundation or starting point
count on
Same on pattern: support
Rely on someone or something with confidence
depend on
Same on pattern: support
Need someone or something for support or to function
draw on
Same on pattern: support
Use a resource, knowledge or experience
go on
Same on pattern: support
Continue happening or doing something; Happen or take place; Talk for a long time, often in a tedious way; Use information as the basis for an opinion; Begin to operate
rely on
Same on pattern: support
Trust someone or something to help
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