construct
Definitions
To build something by putting parts together
建造，建筑（动词）
To form something abstract, such as an argument or theory, by combining ideas
构建，组织（论点、理论等）
An idea or concept built by the mind rather than existing naturally
（人为）构念，概念，构成物
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedcon- (together) + struct (build) = to pile parts together into a whole. The verb covers both physical building (construct a bridge) and abstract building (construct an argument). The noun construct names something the mind builds — "race is a social construct" means it's assembled by society, not found in nature.
Root struct still carries 18 more wordsUsage Guide
Stress shifts between word classes: the verb is con-STRUCT, but the noun is CON-struct. Use the verb for the act of building; the noun is fairly technical (academic, psychology, social science) for an idea the mind assembles.
Example Sentences
- 1.
Workers will construct the new stadium over the next two years.
- 2.
The lawyer carefully constructed her argument.
- 3.
Some psychologists treat the self as a mental construct.