are taking shape

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are taking shape" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is beginning to develop or become more defined over time. Example: "The plans for the new community center are taking shape, and we expect to break ground next month."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

They are taking shape already.

Independent

Regional structures are taking shape.

The Economist

Meanwhile,the new reactors are taking shape.

The New York Times

New hotels are taking shape here.

The New York Times - Travel

The new galleries are taking shape.

The Guardian - Travel

"The country growth strategies of G20 members are taking shape.

The Guardian

In the academies themselves, other possibilities are taking shape.

The Guardian

Quietly, these are taking shape all over the world.

The Guardian - Opinion

THE forces ranged against the coalition government are taking shape.

The Economist

Possibly profound changes are taking shape right now.

The New York Times

While voters' impressions of the candidates remain unformed, a few perceptions are taking shape.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are taking shape" to describe processes or projects that are in the intermediate stage of development, where the final form is not yet complete but is becoming clearer.

Common error

Avoid using "are taking shape" to describe something that is already fully formed or complete. This phrase implies ongoing development, not a finished state.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are taking shape" functions as a verb phrase indicating an ongoing process of development or formation. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples, highlighting its role in describing evolving plans, strategies, or physical structures.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

2%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are taking shape" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe the ongoing development or formation of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news and media contexts. While alternatives like "are forming" or "are developing" exist, "are taking shape" effectively conveys the idea of a process that is gradually becoming more defined. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for both formal and informal communication, though it should be avoided when describing something already fully formed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are forming

This alternative is more direct and implies a basic level of creation or arrangement.

are developing

This alternative emphasizes the gradual process of growth and advancement.

are materializing

This alternative suggests that something is becoming real or concrete, often after being abstract.

are emerging

This alternative highlights the initial stages of appearance or creation.

are evolving

This alternative focuses on the continuous changes and transformations occurring over time.

are crystallizing

This alternative indicates that something is becoming clear and definite after a period of uncertainty.

are solidifying

This alternative emphasizes the process of becoming firm and stable.

are coalescing

This alternative suggests that different elements are coming together to form a unified whole.

are assuming form

This alternative is a more formal way of saying "are taking shape", emphasizing the act of acquiring a particular shape or structure.

are getting off the ground

This alternative is an idiom indicating the commencement and initial progress of a project or plan.

FAQs

How can I use "are taking shape" in a sentence?

You can use "are taking shape" to describe anything that is in the process of developing or forming. For example: "The plans for the new park "are taking shape" rapidly."

What are some alternatives to "are taking shape"?

Some alternatives include "are forming", "are developing", or "are materializing", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "are taking shape" in formal writing?

Yes, "are taking shape" is suitable for formal writing, particularly in contexts where you want to describe the progressive development of a plan, strategy, or structure. However, in extremely formal contexts, consider alternatives like "are assuming form".

What's the difference between "are taking shape" and "are taking place"?

"Are taking shape" refers to the development or formation of something, whereas "are taking place" indicates that events or activities are occurring. The former focuses on the creation of something, while the latter focuses on actions or occurrences.