building block — a basic unit from which something is built up; fundamental element or component
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a basic unit from which something is built up; fundamental element or component
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈbɪldɪŋ blɑːk/
Example Sentences
- Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins.
- Trust and communication are the building blocks of a good relationship.
- My little brother thinks pizza and video games are the building blocks of happiness.
building block
NOUN[/ˈbɪldɪŋ blɑːk/]
a basic unit from which something is built up; fundamental element or component
a basic unit from which something is built up; fundamental element or component
Building stock gets a building shock, shaking every building block!
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
This phrase originated as a metaphorical extension from literal architectural building blocks and bricks used in construction. Beginning in the 1950s, it was adopted figuratively to denote fundamental components or essential elements that serve as the basis for larger structures or systems.
Breakdown
building (a structure or the act of construction) + block (a solid piece of material used in construction). Together they form a compound metaphor comparing basic structural components to fundamental elements necessary for building larger systems or concepts.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins.”
“Trust and communication are the building blocks of a good relationship.”
“My little brother thinks pizza and video games are the building blocks of happiness.”
“Grammar rules are important building blocks for learning a foreign language.”
📚Related Words
Want to master 27,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.