To expand or improve upon an existing concept or structure.
Examples:
We will build off of last year's results to improve.The coach decided to build off of the team's strengths.Let’s build off of this idea to create a solution.
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
Build on
/bɪld ɑːn/
To use a developed idea or concept as a foundation for further development or progress
Examples:
The new policy will build on previous successes.We build on our skills through continuous learning.Let's build on the strong foundation we've established.
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
Ways to tell them apart:
To "build off of" something implies that you are using it as a starting point and developing away from it, perhaps incorporating new ideas or moving in a new direction.
To "build on" something implies that you are adding to or enhancing what's already there, focusing on expansion or improvement while staying closer to the original idea.
"Build off of" can suggest slightly more transformation or deviation from the original concept than "build on."
Remember that "build off of" can imply a step away from the original somehow, while "build on" suggests continuity and addition.
Think of "build on" as adding another layer on top of the existing base, whereas "build off of" might mean you're creating a tangent from the base.