as good a shape

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as good a shape" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing the quality or condition of something, often in a context where you are discussing fitness, health, or the state of an object. Example: "After months of training, I can confidently say I'm in as good a shape as I was in my twenties."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

But I think we are starting out in as good a shape as it can be".

The Guardian - Business

She found that the city's records "weren't in as good a shape as they should have been".

The New York Times

"Our sense is we're in as good a shape as we're going to be," he told a reporter outside court.

The New York Times

"It's in as good a shape as our home field right now," said Thorne, whose duties included stenciling Wildcats' emblems onto the surface.

The New York Times - Sports

Yet in the same appearance, Mr. Wagoner also said, "Our basis business is in as good a shape as it's been for 30 or 40 years".

The New York Times

They will dialyse me that afternoon and again on Tuesday to make sure my blood is in as good a shape as it can be for the op.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

"I think he starts on Monday which will give him six weeks before he actually plays, he'll be in as good as shape as ever, if not better," said White.

BBC

"I hope that when you hit 70, you're in as good shape as I am".

The New York Times

"I'm in as good shape now as when I used to go to the gym".

The New York Times

I'm in as good shape now as I was back when I was 24.

The Guardian - Travel

I had to continue by myself, worry about things I could control, try to get better, to get in as good shape as I can without being able to do drills".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing two subjects, ensure that the context clearly indicates what aspect of "shape" is being compared. For instance, clarify if you are referring to physical fitness, the condition of an object, or the state of an organization.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "shape" always refers to physical condition. Be specific to prevent misinterpretations. Instead of saying "The company is in as good a shape", clarify with "The company's finances are in as good a shape".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as good a shape" primarily functions as a comparative adjective phrase. Ludwig shows that this phrase is used to describe a state or condition that is comparable to another, often in terms of quality or health. It quantifies how similar something is in its current condition to a previous state or to something else.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

2%

Social Media

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as good a shape" is a comparative phrase used to describe a condition or state that is comparable to another. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and most commonly found in News & Media. While it can refer to physical condition, fitness or the state of an object, it's crucial to clarify the context to prevent misinterpretations. Alternatives such as "in as fine a condition" or "in as excellent a form" can be used depending on the desired level of formality or context. This phrase is suitable for neutral contexts and conveys a sense of satisfaction or evaluation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in as fine a condition

Replaces 'shape' with 'condition' and 'good' with 'fine', emphasizing the state of being.

in as excellent a form

Substitutes 'shape' with 'form' and 'good' with 'excellent', highlighting the physical aspect.

in as prime a state

Replaces 'good shape' with 'prime state', suggesting an optimal condition.

in as top-notch a condition

Uses a more informal tone, replacing 'good' with 'top-notch'.

in as sound a state

Replaces 'good' with 'sound', implying a stable and healthy condition.

in tip-top condition

Uses a more idiomatic expression for 'excellent condition'.

in peak physical condition

Specifically refers to physical fitness.

in optimal working order

Focuses on functionality and operational status.

in as serviceable a condition

Highlights the utility and fitness for purpose.

in fighting trim

Idiomatic expression implying fitness or readiness for action.

FAQs

How can I use "as good a shape" in a sentence?

Use "as good a shape" to compare the condition or state of something. For example, "After the renovation, the house is in "as good a shape" as it was when it was first built."

What's a more formal alternative to "as good a shape"?

A more formal alternative would be "in as fine a condition" or "in as excellent a form", depending on the specific context you are conveying. For example, you might say the documents are "in as fine a condition".

Is it always appropriate to use "as good a shape" when referring to physical fitness?

While "as good a shape" can refer to physical fitness, be mindful of the context. Alternatives like "in peak physical condition" or "in fighting trim" might be more precise and vivid.

How does "as good a shape" differ from "in good shape"?

"In good shape" generally indicates a satisfactory condition, while "as good a shape" is comparative, suggesting something is in a condition comparable to a previous or another state. For example, "The car is in good shape" versus "The car is in "as good a shape" as it was before the accident".