Buildings Verbs

Verbs and Phrasal Verbs About Buildings

Many verbs have different meanings, however this section deals with verbs and phrasal verbs connected with buildings. An example is provided only where the verb is commonly used in everyday conversation.

One irregular verb in bold is shown in all its forms.

Verbs

The Verb (infinitive form)	The Meaning	An example  ( Simple Past Tense)	Regular /Irregular
To build	To construct for a dwelling.	He built his own house	Irregular
To construct	To pile up, arrange or build	They constructed the new offices in record time.	Regular
To demolish	To pull or tear down a structure.	They demolished the old slums in 1951.	Regular
To extend	To increase in size or area. To add to an existing building.	As the family grew they extended the house.	Regular
To move	To change ones place of dwelling or business.	To be nearer his job he moved to London.	Regular

Phrasal Verbs

The Phrasal Verb	The Meaning	An example  ( Simple Past Tense)	S=Separable I=Inseparable
build in	To incorporate something as an integral part of something else.	They built new safety features in.	S
build on	To add a new part to an existing structure	They built a double garage on to improve their house.	S
build up	To construct or erect gradually, little by little	They built the business up bit by bit.	S
tear down	To destroy or take apart.	They tore the village down before the dam was built.	S