1 C1 formal
To gradually reduce the size, strength, or number of something, particularly military forces.
"Both nations agreed to build down their nuclear arsenals over the next decade."
inseparable
build down
C1 formal inseparable transitive
To reduce the size or strength of something gradually, especially military forces or infrastructure.
In plain English
To slowly make something smaller or less powerful, like reducing an army.
What does "build down" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Usage tip
Chiefly used in political and military contexts, often in discussions about arms reduction or demilitarization. Rare in everyday speech. Formed by analogy with 'build up'.
Words that pair with "build down"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
forces military arsenal defences stockpile troops
How to conjugate "build down"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
build down
I/you/we/they
3rd person
builds down
he/she/it
Past simple
built down
yesterday
Past participle
built down
have + pp
-ing form
building down
continuous
Hear "build down" in the wild
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