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Can we use verb 'build' and phrasal verb 'build on' interchangeably? For example - I have to build /build on my credit rating for becoming eligible for a home loan. Will it (interchangeability of verb and phrasal verb) applicable to following verb also? "decide and decide on"

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Not really.

Build X can lean towards meaning X doesn't exist yet and you are going to construct X.

Build on X means you are doing new things to enhance or evolve X.

Build up X can phrasally mean "obtain a supply of X for later."

The on in decide on isn't really a phrasal variation. On X can be used if X is a topic/purpose/point of a conversation, meeting, etc.

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    Based on your answer there is a big difference between "to build up your strength" and "to build on your strength".
    – SovereignSun
    Commented Nov 17, 2017 at 20:11
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    Thank you Lawrence for your guidance.So,do the following sentences imply the point you have made? The teacher hasn't yet decided which topic to be taken up next. The teacher decided on the date of examination.
    – Syam Kumar. V
    Commented Nov 17, 2017 at 20:14
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    Some examples in your answer would be helpful. Also you should explain "Not really".
    – user3169
    Commented Nov 17, 2017 at 20:43
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    There is also build upon, which like build on suggests adding that a foundation has already been laid. Build out is related as well, though more for physical construction and metaphors relating to it (like building out a software library).
    – choster
    Commented Nov 17, 2017 at 22:11

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