build on

Idioms and Phrases

Also, build upon . Add as an extension; use as a basis or foundation. For example, They decided to build on an addition , or She was building all her hopes on passing the exam . John Locke had this idiom in his treatise on government (1689): “Sovereignty built on ‘property’ . . . comes to nothing.” [Late 1600s]

Example Sentences

"This approach to learning contributes to what we call 'cumulative culture' -- the ability to build on existing knowledge and pass it down through generations," Hewlett said.

From Science Daily

Martin has always dreamed of taking on his family's farm in the Belfast Hills and building on what his great-grandfather started.

From BBC

However, the party failed to build on its vote share and in the general election earlier this year, it stood four candidates and won just 1,275 votes.

From BBC

England's record under him means Tuchel has been spared that prospect of navigating a Nations League play-off while, significantly, Carsley has strengthened the youthful foundations for his successor to build on.

From BBC

But the pressure is building on them to make a call.

From BBC

Related Words

• believe in
• bet on
• count on
• lean on
• look to
• rely on