alter the shape

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "alter the shape" is correct and can be used in written English.
For example, "We can alter the shape of the cake by adding icing and decorations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I don't think Twenty20 will alter the shape of cricket.

The Guardian - Sport

This will, over time, subtly alter the shape of Britain.

Independent

They alter the shape of the room and give a background of gentle light.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

In other words, global warming could alter the shape of the planet.

The New Yorker

An effort is under way, vast in ambition and experimental in nature, to radically alter the shape of government itself.

The New Yorker

Much of today's rural land use is industrial, so growing biomass would not necessarily alter the shape or feel of the countryside; another box ticked.

The Guardian

If you alter the shape of a plate, you may have to alter the tray and the carts, which can get you into massive logistical issues".

The New York Times

Wylie's grasp of composition is complete, which is why she will often alter the shape of the canvas; it is also surreptitious.

The Guardian - Arts

We want to be well represented – and that leads us to disguise and adapt our breasts, to lift them, pad them and alter the shape of our silhouette.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Nixon would try to stretch her neck the same way as Kerr and alter the shape of her mouth to emulate that of the actress.

The Guardian - Film

Newspaper reports the following day refer to them as "silent tears", but they were powerful enough to alter the shape of the judge's twitching mouth.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing changes to abstract concepts, use "alter the shape" to convey a fundamental shift in its nature or structure, such as "alter the shape of the economy" or "alter the shape of government".

Common error

Avoid using "alter the shape" when a simple change or adjustment is intended; it suggests a more significant transformation. Use "adjust" or "modify" for minor changes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "alter the shape" functions primarily as a verb phrase. It typically describes an action that causes a change in the form or structure of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a grammatically sound expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

34%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "alter the shape" is a grammatically sound verb phrase widely used across diverse contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and the examples showcase its use in science, news, and encyclopedic sources. While primarily neutral, its usage leans toward professional. It describes a deliberate transformation. Key alternatives include "modify the form" and "change the configuration". When writing, remember that this phrase indicates a significant change, not a minor adjustment.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

modify the form

Focuses on changing the form with a slightly more formal tone.

reshape the structure

Highlights giving a new shape to the existing structure.

change the configuration

Emphasizes altering the arrangement or structure.

adjust the contour

Specifically relates to modifying the outline or external form.

remodel the outline

Refers to recreating or restructuring the external boundary.

transform the appearance

Broader, involving a more significant or dramatic change in look.

revise the figure

Suggests reviewing and correcting the existing shape or form.

morph the format

Implies a gradual or evolutionary change in the format.

recast the mold

Refers to creating a new shape by using a different mold or method.

vary the pattern

Focuses on changing the arrangement or design.

FAQs

How can I use "alter the shape" in a sentence?

You can use "alter the shape" to describe changes to physical objects or abstract concepts. For example, "Global warming could "alter the shape" of the planet", or "New policies could "alter the shape" of the healthcare system".

What are some alternatives to "alter the shape"?

Some alternatives include "modify the form", "change the configuration", or "reshape the structure", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "alter the shape" or "change the shape"?

"Alter the shape" and "change the shape" are very similar, but "alter" suggests a more deliberate or significant transformation. "Change the shape" is a more general term.

What is the difference between "alter the shape" and "affect the shape"?

"Alter the shape" implies a direct modification, while "affect the shape" suggests an influence that may or may not result in a change. For example, "Increased rainfall could affect the shape of the coastline", but "Engineers can "alter the shape" of a bridge with modifications".