be in shape to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be in shape to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone is prepared or physically fit enough to do something. Example: "After months of training, I finally feel like I am in shape to run the marathon."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Like the Harlem Globetrotters, BAM! BAM! BAM! "We have to be in shape to play.

The New Yorker

After a crash, though, you might not be in shape to call for help.

The New York Times

"While this will mean job losses, the business must be in shape to compete successfully in the market for long-term financial services," Mr Crombie asserted.

The Guardian - Money

That's always puzzled Small Talk: given that you don't need to be in shape to play snooker, why can't the stars stay at the top forever and ever?

The Guardian - Sport

You clearly need to be in shape to make a film like Rosetta, set in inclement weather with key scenes by a filthy lake.

The Guardian - Film

Elliott has said it would take a month or two before he would be in shape to rejoin the active roster.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

The system is in shape to carry on that success".

The Guardian - Sport

"He knew he was in shape to run 3 54 or 3 55, but 3 53 was great".

The New York Times - Sports

By February, Galarraga was in shape to report to spring training.

The New York Times - Sports

"I knew I was in shape to run 2 07," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

The favourite for triathlon gold at the Commonwealth Games is in shape to do himself justice.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be in shape to", ensure the context clearly indicates what specific activity or task the subject needs to be prepared for. For example, "Athletes need to "be in shape to" compete at a high level."

Common error

Avoid using "be in shape to" when the context does not genuinely require physical fitness. Using it for tasks that are primarily intellectual or creative can sound awkward. Consider alternatives like "be prepared to" or "be ready to" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be in shape to" functions as a modal construction indicating ability or preparedness for a specific action. Ludwig AI examples show it often modifies verbs related to physical activities (e.g., compete, run, play) or demanding tasks.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

18%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Science

9%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be in shape to" is a common phrase used to express the physical fitness or readiness required to perform a specific activity. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, primarily appearing in News & Media. While it often refers to physical fitness, it can also imply a general state of preparedness. When using the phrase, ensure the context clearly indicates the activity for which fitness is necessary. Alternatives like "be fit enough to" or "be ready to" can be used depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be fit enough to

Replaces "in shape" with a more direct synonym for physical fitness.

be ready to

Focuses on preparedness rather than physical condition.

be capable of

Emphasizes ability and competence, which might include physical capability.

be prepared to

Highlights the state of being ready and equipped for something.

have the ability to

Directly states the possession of a skill or capacity.

be up to

Implies being sufficient or adequate for a task.

be equal to

Suggests being on par or matching the requirements of a situation.

be able to

A more general expression of capability, not necessarily tied to physical fitness.

be equal to the task of

Focuses on being adequate and capable to perform a task.

be in a position to

Indicates having the necessary circumstances or condition to do something.

FAQs

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

Use "be in shape to" when you want to express that someone is physically fit or prepared enough to perform a particular action. For example, "You need to "be in shape to" run a marathon."

What can I say instead of "be in shape to"?

You can use alternatives like "be fit enough to", "be ready to", or "be capable of", depending on the specific context.

Is it always about physical fitness when using "be in shape to"?

While "be in shape to" often refers to physical fitness, it can also imply a general state of preparedness or readiness. For clarity, ensure the context makes your intended meaning clear.

What is the difference between "be in shape to" and "be ready to"?

"Be in shape to" typically implies a level of physical fitness or preparation, while "be ready to" focuses more on general preparedness, which may or may not involve physical condition.