build
verb (used with object)
to construct (especially something complex) by assembling and joining parts or materials.
has been building
-
present perfect progressiveof build (3rd person singular).present perfect progressive
Used to describe an action that began in the past, has continued continuously, and is still in progress.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Vasant Dhar has been building artificial intelligence long before anyone called it that.
From MarketWatch ● Jul. 27, 2026
Momentum for powering commercial ships with nuclear power has been building for years.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 23, 2026
Anticipation for the film has been building for at least a year, when the first Imax 70mm tickets went on sale.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 19, 2026
Anticipation for her new work has been building since last year, when she performed two new songs – Death Wish and Cold Goodbyes – on tour.
From BBC ● Jul. 18, 2026
The heat has been building all day, closing in on me, I feel as though I’m breathing through a mask.
From "The Girl on the Train" by Paula Hawkins
