Phrasal verb
build in
Meanings
to include something as an essential part of a plan, system, or design from the beginning
to install something so it is fixed into a larger structure and not meant to be moved easily
Definition
To build in means to include something as part of a plan, system, or design from the beginning.
If you build something in, you design it so a feature, rule, or component is included from the start. It often refers to making something an essential part of a process, product, or schedule. The idea is that the feature is not added later, but planned and integrated.
Examples
- I build in extra time for traffic when I plan my morning commute.
- You should build in breaks during a long online training session.
- She built in privacy settings before launching the new app.
- They built in shelves along the living room wall to save space.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse "build in" (include as part of the design) with "build up" (increase gradually).
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.