bad shape

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bad shape" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is in poor condition or not functioning well. Example: "After the storm, the old barn was in bad shape and needed extensive repairs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It's in bad shape.

The New York Times

We're in bad shape".

The New York Times

We're all in bad shape.

The New Yorker

He arrived in bad shape.

The New Yorker

He's in bad shape, psychologically".

The New Yorker

France is in bad shape.

The Guardian - Film

I was in bad shape.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Viki was in bad shape.

The New Yorker

They are in bad shape".

The Guardian

It was in bad shape.

The New Yorker

The Indian economy is in bad shape.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing something abstract, like an economy or a relationship, consider whether "bad shape" accurately reflects the severity. Alternatives like "dire straits" or "on the rocks" might be more appropriate for critical situations.

Common error

While "bad shape" is widely understood, it may sound too informal in professional documents or academic papers. Opt for more precise and sophisticated synonyms like "deteriorated condition" or "state of disrepair" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bad shape" functions as an adjective phrase that typically modifies a noun, describing its condition or state. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Formal & Business

8%

Science

4%

Less common in

Social Media

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bad shape" is a common and generally acceptable way to describe something in poor condition. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it’s widely used in news and media but might be considered informal for academic or highly professional contexts. Alternatives like "poor condition" or "state of disrepair" can be more suitable for formal writing. When using "bad shape", consider the context and audience to ensure the tone is appropriate. Be mindful that more precise and descriptive alternatives might exist to specify the exact nature of the problem.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bad condition

Direct synonym, slightly less common but equally valid.

poor condition

Focuses on the degraded state of something, emphasizing its physical condition.

poor state

A more general term indicating an undesirable or unfavorable condition.

in disrepair

Specifically refers to a state of neglect and deterioration, often for physical objects or structures.

declining state

Highlights the process of deterioration and gradual worsening.

dire straits

Implies a more urgent and perilous situation than simply being in "bad shape".

in a mess

Suggests disorder and disarray, often implying a lack of control.

in trouble

Indicates difficulties or problems, potentially more serious than just being in "bad shape".

on the rocks

Suggests instability and a high risk of failure, particularly in relationships or organizations.

shambles

Implies a state of utter chaos and disorganization.

FAQs

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

You can use "bad shape" to describe the condition of something physical (e.g., "The car is in "bad shape" after the accident") or something abstract (e.g., "The economy is in "bad shape" due to the recession").

What are some alternatives to "bad shape"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "poor condition", "state of disrepair", "dire straits", or "on the rocks".

Is it appropriate to use "bad shape" in formal writing?

While understandable, "bad shape" might be too informal for formal writing. In those cases, opt for more sophisticated alternatives such as "deteriorated condition" or "state of disrepair".

What does it mean when something is described as being in "bad shape"?

When something is in "bad shape", it means that it is in poor condition, damaged, or not functioning well. This can apply to physical objects, situations, or even someone's health or mental state.