be in good shape

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be in good shape" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to refer to physical health or to refer to the condition or state of something. For example: "I'm trying to get back into the gym so I can be in good shape."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"It seems to be in good shape.

The New York Times

You're supposed to be in good shape.

The New York Times - Sports

I think they'll be in good shape.

The Guardian - Sport

So the Giants appear to be in good shape.

The New York Times - Sports

You have to be in good shape to play it".

The New York Times

"Lizzie looks to be in good shape," she said.

The New Yorker

"Obviously, I think we'll be in good shape as well.

The New York Times

"If it does, we'll be in good shape".

The New York Times

Either way, JPMorgan Chase looks to be in good shape.

The Economist

But the Knicks' payroll should be in good shape regardless.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

If that happens, the Cubs should be in good shape.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's physical condition, use "be in good shape" to indicate they are healthy and physically fit. For example, "To climb this mountain, you need to "be in good shape"."

Common error

Avoid using "be in good shape" when you mean to express the action of improving one's condition. "Get in good shape" refers to the process of becoming fit, while "be in good shape" describes the state of being fit. For example, instead of saying "I will "be in good shape" for the marathon after training", say "I will "get in good shape" for the marathon after training".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be in good shape" functions primarily as a descriptive idiom. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. It is used to describe the condition or state of something, whether physical health, financial status, or the condition of an object.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Academia

12%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

7%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be in good shape" is a versatile and common idiom used to describe a state of well-being or satisfactory condition. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct. As demonstrated by examples, it can apply to physical fitness, financial stability, or the state of an object or project. While versatile, it's important to note that it is descriptive, not active, meaning that it describes an existing state rather than the process of achieving that state. When describing how to achieve good shape, it's more adequate to use the alternative phrase "get in good shape".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be in excellent condition

Focuses more on the physical state or condition of something, implying a high level of maintenance and care.

be in top form

Emphasizes peak performance or capability, often used in the context of sports or personal ability.

be in fine fettle

An idiomatic expression suggesting good health and spirits, adding a touch of quaintness.

be well-prepared

Highlights the aspect of readiness and anticipation, suitable when the context involves planning or competition.

be in a healthy state

Specifically refers to health, whether physical, mental, or financial.

be fit and healthy

Specifically refers to health, implying that the physical health is the priority.

be in a strong position

Emphasizes a position of advantage or security, often in business or strategic contexts.

be sitting pretty

Suggests a comfortable and enviable situation, often implying a degree of luck or ease.

be thriving

Implies growth and success, suitable when the subject is actively improving.

be flourishing

Similar to thriving, but often used to describe a more vibrant and visible state of success.

FAQs

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

You can use "be in good shape" to describe someone's physical fitness, the condition of an object, or the status of a project. For example, "She needs to "be in good shape" for the competition" or "The company needs to "be in a strong position" to win the contract".

What's a more formal way to say "be in good shape"?

In a formal context, you might use phrases like "be in excellent condition" or "be in satisfactory condition". For example, "The equipment must "be in good working order" prior to operation".

Which is correct, "be in good shape" or "being in good shape"?

"Be in good shape" is used as an infinitive or imperative. "Being in good shape" is a gerund phrase, used as a noun. Both are grammatically correct but have different functions. For example, "It's important to "be in shape" for the marathon" vs. "Being in good health requires regular exercise".

What does it mean to "be in good shape" financially?

When referring to finances, "be in good shape" means to "be financially stable", secure, or profitable. For example, "After the successful quarter, the company is expected to "be in good shape" for the next fiscal year".