Build around Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Central Focus Remember that 'build around' means the main element guides the entire creation process. The tour was built around historical landmarks. Pro Tip 2/3Starting Point The core idea or object acts as a starting point from which everything else develops. The novel's plot was built around a mysterious character. Pro Tip 3/3Not Literal In creative contexts, 'build around' can be figurative, not involving physical construction. His speech was built around the theme of resilience.