comes in the shape of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "comes in the shape of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the form or appearance of something, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "The solution to the problem comes in the shape of a new software update that enhances functionality."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

One large one comes in the shape of missile defences.

The Economist

One my favourite contemporary allusions comes in the shape of Randall McTodd.

The Guardian - Books

For the right, it comes in the shape of a new word: "islamofascism".

The Guardian

She also created a breakfast cereal that comes in the shape of action figures and dissolves into mush in milk.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

After all, hypocrisy is good for business, particularly when it comes in the shape of a diversion.

The New York Times - Sports

It comes in the shape of a scientific report released earlier this year which was shamefully under-reported.

The Guardian - Opinion

Yet there is a potential obstacle to this latest success and it comes in the shape of Colin Firth.

The Guardian - Film

The ender comes in the shape of the anthemic "I'm Not in Love" usually featuring The Cure's Robert Smith.

Independent

Ironically, the best support for Smith's stress on Pershing's shortcomings in personality comes in the shape of this book.

The New York Times - Books

The final element in the attack on orthodoxy comes in the shape of what we have learnt about management over 25 years.

The Guardian - Business

The designation is Opus 1, No. 3, and in it we find an entry-level composer whose foot in the door comes in the shape of a piano.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "comes in the shape of" to vividly describe how an abstract concept or unexpected element materializes in a concrete or recognizable form. It can add a layer of imagery to your writing.

Common error

While versatile, avoid overusing "comes in the shape of" in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise or direct alternatives like "takes the form of" or "is manifested as" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "comes in the shape of" functions as a descriptive element within a sentence. It typically indicates the form or manner in which something appears or manifests. Ludwig AI indicates this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

83%

Academia

7%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "comes in the shape of" is a versatile and grammatically correct expression used to describe how something appears or manifests. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use. While most common in news and media, it's also present in academic and wiki contexts. For more formal settings, consider alternatives like "takes the form of" or "is manifested as". Remember to use this phrase to add detail and imagery, avoiding overuse in highly formal writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

takes the form of

Emphasizes the resulting form or structure something adopts. It is more formal than the original phrase.

manifests as

Highlights how something becomes apparent or visible. It is often used in more abstract contexts.

appears as

Focuses on the visible or perceived appearance. It is suitable for describing surface-level characteristics.

is presented as

Suggests a deliberate showing or offering of something in a particular way. It is often used in marketing or promotional contexts.

is embodied by

Implies that something is represented or personified by something else. It is more common in literary or philosophical contexts.

is characterized by

Highlights the distinguishing features or qualities of something. It is often used in descriptive or analytical writing.

is fashioned as

Suggests that something is created or designed in a specific form. It implies intentional design.

is modeled on

Indicates that something is based on or inspired by a particular model or design. It suggests imitation or replication.

is structured as

Focuses on the arrangement and organization of something. It is often used in technical or scientific contexts.

is configured as

Implies that something is arranged or set up in a specific way. It is often used in technical or computing contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "comes in the shape of" in a sentence?

You can use "comes in the shape of" to describe how something appears or manifests itself. For example, "The solution to our problem "comes in the shape of" a new software update."

What phrases are similar to "comes in the shape of"?

Similar phrases include "takes the form of", "appears as", or "manifests as". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "comes in the shape of" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "comes in the shape of" might be too informal for some formal contexts. Consider using "takes the form of" or a more direct alternative for a professional tone.

What's the difference between "comes in the shape of" and "is presented as"?

"Comes in the shape of" describes a physical or conceptual form, while "is presented as" implies a deliberate action of showing something in a particular way. For instance, "The gift "comes in the shape of" a heart", versus "The data "is presented as" a graph".