can take shape

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can take shape" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe the process of something developing or becoming more defined over time. Example: "As the project progressed, the initial ideas began to take shape, leading to a clearer vision of the final product."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

That can take shape in a variety of ways.

The Washington Post

The FSA can train fighters there, and a credible opposition can take shape.

The Economist

It is a collaborative process, but the collaboration can take shape in different ways.

The New York Times

She explained how the building can take shape through its form, being an expression of it.

University of California, Berkeley

If the Chinese buy more and Americans save more, a more stable global economic exchange can take shape.

The New York Times

To what extent a practicable regulatory framework can take shape will be a decisive factor in counterterrorism strategy.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

It has a translucence, and it can take shapes that you can't get with wood".

The New York Times

Throughout this range, cells can take shapes resembling the letters "T", "L", "U", and "C".

Nature

This desire for more can take shapes both heroic and avaricious.

Huffington Post

The traps are generally formed by highly modified leaves, which can take shapes as diverse [5] as pitfall traps in Sarracenia, Cephalotus and Nepenthes, flypaper-traps in sundews (Drosera) and butterworts (Pinguicula) or even be very sophisticated devices such as the snap traps of Dionaea or the suction bladders of Utricularia.

Plosone

By doing this, the different words can then take shape and the computer can lip-read what a person is saying.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can take shape" to describe the gradual development or formation of abstract concepts, ideas, or plans. For example, "A new strategy can take shape after careful analysis of market trends".

Common error

While "can take shape" is generally acceptable, overuse in formal writing can make it sound less precise. Consider using stronger verbs like 'develop', 'form', or 'materialize' for greater impact in academic or business contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can take shape" functions as a verb phrase expressing the potential or ability of something to develop or form. Ludwig examples illustrate its use across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

24%

Science

24%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can take shape" is a commonly used phrase that describes the development or formation of something, often an abstract idea or plan. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across diverse contexts such as news, academia, and science. While versatile, remember that more formal alternatives like "can materialize" or "can crystallize" might be preferable in specific writing situations. Pay attention to the nuances of each alternative to ensure the most accurate and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can develop

This is a more general term for something growing or progressing.

can form

This alternative focuses on the initial creation or structure of something.

can materialize

This alternative suggests a more concrete or tangible emergence.

can emerge

This alternative emphasizes the act of something becoming visible or known.

can arise

This alternative suggests that something appears or comes into existence.

can unfold

This alternative implies a gradual revelation or development.

can come to fruition

This alternative emphasizes the completion and successful development of something.

can evolve

This alternative highlights the gradual development and change over time.

can crystallize

This alternative suggests that something becomes clear and definite.

can be realized

This alternative emphasizes the achievement or fulfillment of something.

FAQs

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

You can use "can take shape" to describe the process of something developing or becoming more defined. For instance, "The project's goals began to "can take shape" after the initial research phase".

What can I say instead of "can take shape"?

You can use alternatives like "can develop", "can form", or "can materialize" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "can take shape" in academic writing?

Yes, "can take shape" is appropriate, but consider more formal alternatives like "can crystallize" or "can be realized" for a more academic tone.

What is the difference between "can take shape" and "can take form"?

While similar, ""can take shape"" implies a more gradual or evolving development, whereas "can take form" suggests a more immediate structuring or configuration.