a conventional shape

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a conventional shape" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a form or design that is typical or widely accepted in a particular context. Example: "The architect chose a conventional shape for the building to blend in with the surrounding structures."

✓ Grammatically correct

The phrase is used to describe forms or designs that are typical or widely accepted.

It appears in contexts discussing architecture, engineering, and abstract concepts like narratives.

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The irregular height of the roof-terrace reflects the irregular floorplan of the building - not a single room is a conventional shape - and the varying height of the arches of the attic floor below.

The Guardian

In a recent case, architects Kohn Pedersen Fox had to use a shadow study to prove that their odd design for an office block near the World Trade Centre site in New York wouldn't block out any more sunlight than a conventional shape.

The Guardian - Arts

The curve has a "conventional" shape containing an exponential phase followed by a "plateau" phase [ 19].

BioMed Research International

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

In a conventional shape-memory polymer, the material is temporarily deformed and then returned to its original shape by direct heating.

The New York Times - Science

McLaren have also abandoned the distinctive L-shaped sidepods that distinguished the 2011 car, reverting to a more conventional shape.

BBC

After this oblique start, "Here Lies" assumes a more conventional shape.

The New York Times - Books

As Arsenal returned to a more conventional shape, Steed Malbranque's snap shot almost caught them out.

The Guardian - Sport

They show that Degas painted most of the young woman's face in one action, but spent time reworking what were originally pixie-like ears into a more conventional shape.

The Guardian - Arts

Reversible plasticity shape memory (RPSM) property of multi-walled-carbon-nanotube (MWCNT) reinforced epoxy nanocomposites is investigated as an alternative to conventional shape memory programming and for possible applications in self-healing systems.

Composites Science and Technology

A self-confessed 'wild book' – it's a book about not writing a book – it lacks conventional shape or scope, but it works.

BBC

The external nozzle shape was changed from a conventional conic shape to a flat plate whose diameter was then changed by a factor of three to determine how external nozzle shape and size affected the sound of the vortex pairing in the jet.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a conventional shape", ensure that the context clearly defines the norm against which the shape is being compared. For instance, specify whether it's conventional within a particular industry, art style, or geometric standard.

Common error

Avoid assuming that the audience shares the same understanding of what constitutes "a conventional shape". Always provide sufficient context to prevent ambiguity. For example, if discussing architecture, clarify whether you mean conventional for residential buildings or skyscrapers.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a conventional shape" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It typically describes something that conforms to established or widely accepted forms, as demonstrated in examples discussing architecture and design.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a conventional shape" is a grammatically correct and usable English phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It functions primarily to describe forms or designs that adhere to established norms, differentiating them from more innovative or unconventional alternatives. Its frequency is considered uncommon. While versatile, its use is most prevalent in news, media and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, clarity is key; always ensure your audience understands the reference point for what constitutes "conventional" in the given context. Alternatives include "a typical form" or "a standard design", which can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a typical form

Focuses on the typical nature of the form, highlighting its adherence to common standards.

a standard design

Emphasizes the design's conformity to established standards and specifications.

an ordinary shape

Highlights the lack of uniqueness or distinction in the shape.

a regular shape

Indicates a shape that is consistent and conforms to a defined pattern or norm.

a common form

Stresses the widespread occurrence and familiarity of the form.

a traditional shape

Emphasizes the shape's roots in historical or long-standing practices.

a familiar design

Focuses on the recognizability and accustomed nature of the design.

a run-of-the-mill shape

Highlights the shape's ordinariness and lack of special qualities.

a vanilla shape

Conveys the idea of a shape being unadorned and lacking in distinctive features.

a textbook shape

Suggests the shape is a classic example, often used for educational purposes.

FAQs

How can I use "a conventional shape" in a sentence?

You can use "a conventional shape" to describe an object or design that adheres to established norms. For example, "The building's design adopted "a conventional shape" to blend seamlessly into the historical district".

What are some alternatives to saying "a conventional shape"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a typical form", "a standard design", or "an ordinary shape".

Is it always negative to describe something as having "a conventional shape"?

Not necessarily. Describing something as having "a conventional shape" can be neutral or even positive when conformity to norms is desired or expected. However, it can be negative in contexts where innovation or uniqueness is valued.

What is the difference between "a conventional shape" and "a traditional shape"?

"A conventional shape" refers to a shape that is currently widely accepted or typical, while "a traditional shape" emphasizes that the shape has been used or recognized over a long period. They both imply commonality but differ in their emphasis on time versus current practice.