construct
The engineers will construct a new bridge over the river.
The engineers will build a new bridge over the river.
To build or make something by putting parts together
The company plans to construct a new office building next year.
The company plans to build a new office building next year.
Scientists constructed a hypothesis based on their observations.
Scientists formed a hypothesis based on their observations.
Often used in technical, engineering, or scientific contexts.
To form or create an idea, system, or theory
Freud constructed a theory of personality development.
Freud developed a theory of personality development.
Common in academic and theoretical discussions.
A group of words forming a phrase or sentence
In the sentence 'She runs quickly,' 'runs quickly' is a verb phrase construct.
In the sentence 'She runs quickly,' 'runs quickly' is a verb phrase.
Used in grammar and syntax to describe linguistic structures.
Collocations
Pro Tip
Avoid confusion with 'construct' vs. 'instruct'
'Construct' means to build or create, while 'instruct' means to teach or give directions. They are not interchangeable.
Gold Rule
Use 'construct' for deliberate creation
Reserve 'construct' for actions that involve planning, assembling, or forming something, whether physical or abstract.
Word Origin
From Latin *constructus*, past participle of *construere* 'to pile up, build,' from *con-* 'together' + *struere* 'to pile, build'.
Usage Notes
As a verb, 'construct' implies deliberate, often technical or systematic creation. It is more formal than 'build' and often used in academic, engineering, or theoretical contexts.