be in better shape

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be in better shape" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing physical fitness, health, or the condition of something, indicating improvement or a more favorable state. Example: "After months of training, I can confidently say that I am finally in better shape than I was last year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Be in better shape.

The New York Times

"Right now, Suffolk seems to be in better shape.

The New York Times

Essentially the tunnels would be in better shape today".

The New York Times

Giants Stadium's grass field should be in better shape.

The New York Times - Sports

I'm going to be in better shape than I was.

The New York Times - Sports

The second premise seems to be in better shape.

The New Yorker

Do you really think we'd be in better shape?

The New York Times

Believe it or not, the Terrapins may be in better shape than Notre Dame.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Sinopoli was three years younger than Mr. Levine and appeared to be in better shape.

The New York Times - Arts

And if another crisis hits, at least the government's finances will be in better shape.

The New York Times

Obama could be in better shape, and his staff bears some of the responsibility for that.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be in better shape" to describe a situation or organization, ensure the context clearly indicates what "better shape" refers to, such as financial stability, operational efficiency, or market position.

Common error

Avoid using "be in better shape" without specifying the area of improvement. For example, saying "The company is in better shape" is vague; clarify whether it refers to finances, operations, or market share to provide meaningful information.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be in better shape" functions primarily as a predicate within a sentence, describing the improved state or condition of a subject. As Ludwig AI examples show, it is often used to indicate improvements in physical condition, financial status, or overall well-being.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Sports

20%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Science

7%

Reference

7%

Encyclopedias

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be in better shape" is a versatile expression used to describe an improved state or condition, whether referring to physical fitness, financial health, or the status of an object. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and very common across various contexts, including News & Media and Sports. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the area of improvement. While generally neutral in register, consider more formal alternatives like "be in improved condition" for professional settings. Remember that while the phrase is widespread, precision in its application will enhance clarity and effectiveness of communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be in improved condition

Replaces "shape" with "condition", focusing on the state of something.

be in a healthier state

Substitutes "better shape" with "healthier state", emphasizing health.

be fitter

Uses a single word, "fitter", to convey improved physical fitness.

be in finer fettle

Employs the idiom "finer fettle" to suggest improved health or condition.

be more robust

Replaces the original phrase with "more robust", indicating strength and health.

be doing better

A general phrase indicating improvement in overall condition or performance.

have improved

Focuses on the action of improvement, rather than the resulting state.

show improvement

Highlights the evidence of getting in "better shape".

be on the mend

Indicates recovery or improvement from a negative state.

be upgraded

Uses a technical term to suggest improved status or condition.

FAQs

How can I use "be in better shape" in a sentence about personal fitness?

You can say, "After consistent exercise, I aim to "be in better shape" for the marathon" or "My goal is to "be in better shape" by the end of the year."

What's a more formal alternative to "be in better shape" when discussing a company's performance?

Consider using phrases like "be in improved condition" or "demonstrate enhanced performance" to convey a more professional tone.

Is it correct to use "be in better shape" when referring to an object or structure?

Yes, it's correct. For example, "The bridge should "be in better shape" after the repairs" indicates an improved physical state. Another alternative could be "be in better condition".

Which is more appropriate: "be in better shape" or "be in good shape"?

"Be in good shape" implies a satisfactory current state, while ""be in better shape"" suggests an improvement from a previous state. The choice depends on whether you're describing a current condition or a change.