BUILT ON

Human Communication

"A society truly prospers when its foundation is built on kindness, trust, and the dreams of its citizens, fulfilling genuine aspirations."

📖 Definition

Built on means to establish a foundation or base upon which something is developed or rely on previously established knowledge or achievements.

Examples in context

📖 Definition

Built on means to establish a foundation or base upon which something is developed or rely on previously established knowledge or achievements.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable
Yes
You can use it as 'built X on' or 'built on X'.
Register
Neutral
Suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
Transitive
Yes
The verb requires a direct object.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense Form Example
Present Simple build on They build on the previous research to advance the project.
Past Simple built on He built on his experience to create a successful startup.
Present Continuous building on They are building on last year's progress.
Present Perfect have built on We have built on our initial ideas to form a comprehensive plan.

💡 When to Use

Academic research
Use it to describe using previous research as a basis for new work, enhancing understanding.
Example: "The study builds on previous research to expand theoretical frameworks."
Business development
Refer to leveraging existing strategies or products to grow or innovate within a company.
Example: "The company plans to build on its product success with new features."
Historical context
Describe how current events, actions, or policies develop from past events or foundations.
Example: "Modern laws are built on ancient legal traditions."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Incorrect verb tense
❌ Wrong: They have build on last year's project.
✅ Correct: They have built on last year's project.
💡 Tip: Remember to use 'built' as the past participle.
Incorrect preposition
❌ Wrong: He built off his father's legacy.
✅ Correct: He built on his father's legacy.
💡 Tip: Use 'on' to indicate a foundation.
Non-separable usage
❌ Wrong: He built the theory on.
✅ Correct: He built on the theory.
💡 Tip: Keep the object after the verb phrase unless using a pronoun.
Practice

BUILT ON - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

  1. Listen and repeat the audio as many times as needed to improve your pronunciation
  2. Use the audio as a dictation exercise, trying to write what you hear and understand
  3. Create a new sentence following the structure of the example sentences

Examples in Context

  • 1
    Listen to example

    This initiative is built on a strong commitment to sustainability and green energy solutions.

    Words Multiplied
  • 2
    Listen to example

    We built on this experience to improve our future projects and expand our skillset.

    Words Multiplied
  • 3
    Listen to example

    Their success was built on years of hard work, dedication, and teamwork.

    Words Multiplied

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

base on rely on

Antonyms

ignore

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"The project was ___ previous findings and aimed to expand them."

ignored
built on
hindered
isolated

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Built On

What is the origin of built on?

+
The phrasal verb 'built on' stems from the construction practice of using a foundation. It metaphorically indicates using previous work or ideas as a base.

Can built on be used in formal and informal contexts?

+
Yes, 'built on' is appropriate for both formal and informal settings. It is versatile, relating to both academic and casual environments.

What is the difference between built on and rely on?

+
'Built on' emphasizes development from a base, while 'rely on' suggests dependence. Both imply a foundation, but levels of dependence differ.

Related Phrasal Verbs

Explore more phrasal verbs in our dictionary:

build updraw onrely onexpand onimprove on
Browse All Words Multiplied Phrasal Verbs
Human Communication Phrasal Verbs - WeeklyCross
Alessandra Nóbrega
About the Author

Alessandra Nóbrega

History teacher who fell in love with English! This passion led me to specialize in languages and work on bilingual education projects. With 37 years in education, I believe learning should be meaningful – not just memorization.

Learn more about my journey



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