The phrasal verb "build in" is commonly used in both informal and formal contexts, though it may appear more frequently in technical or professional discussions. It generally refers to incorporating a feature or element into something as an integral part. For example, in technology and engineering, one might "build in" safety features into a system or "build in" software functionalities into a digital platform. The phrase often conveys the notion of seamlessly embedding or integrating components during the design or construction phase, rather than adding them as an afterthought. "Build in" can be related to both physical objects, like furniture, or abstract concepts, such as rules or policies within organizational frameworks.
B1
Intermediate
1. To include something as an integral part of a larger system or structure.
They decided to build in an extra room for guests.
Advanced security features are built in to the software.
The architect built in extra storage spaces throughout the house.
2. To design or plan something so that it is a permanent and essential feature.
The curriculum has built-in flexibility for student projects.
The smartphone has built-in facial recognition technology.