Construct
/kənˈstrʌkt/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo build or form something, typically a structure, system, or argument.
/kənˈstrʌkt/
To build or create something.
They are constructing a new shopping mall downtown.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're building a house out of blocks. To 'construct' means to put the pieces together to make it.
👶 For kids: To build something, like a tower of blocks!
More Examples
The team constructed a compelling argument in favor of their proposal.
The scientists constructed a model to test their theory.
The company will construct a new factory next year.
How It's Used
"The architects are planning to construct a new building on this site."
"Engineers must construct the bridge according to strict safety regulations."
An idea or theory, typically a complex one formed from various elements.
/ˈkɒnstrʌkt/
An idea or concept.
Social media has created a new construct of online identity.
💡 Simply: A construct is like a complex idea or something you 'build' in your mind, like the idea of time or fairness.
👶 For kids: A made-up idea, like Santa Claus or the Tooth Fairy!
More Examples
The concept of 'national identity' is often a cultural construct.
His research focused on the construct of 'emotional intelligence'.
The legal system operates based on the construct of justice.
How It's Used
"The psychologist is studying the social construct of happiness."
"The concept of free will is a philosophical construct."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
construct a narrative
To build or formulate a story or account of events.
"The journalist carefully constructed a narrative to explain the complex political situation."
construct a sentence
To put words together in a grammatically correct and meaningful way.
"The teacher asked the students to construct a sentence using the new vocabulary words."
From Latin *construere* meaning 'to pile together, build'.
The word 'construct' has been used since the 16th century, originally referring to building or arranging something.
Memory tip
Think of LEGOs – you construct a building piece by piece.
Word Origin
"to put together, build"