fall out of shape

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fall out of shape" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone or something has become less fit, organized, or in good condition over time. Example: "After months of inactivity, I really feel like I've fallen out of shape and need to start exercising again."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Lest the players fall out of shape, the Yankees held a practice in Modesto, out east in a dry valley.

The New York Times

The real problem, Anderson said, is that players fall out of shape during the season because of the destructive hours and travel and restaurant meals.

The New York Times - Sports

However, the iron-hulled frigate was abandoned by the end of the 1840s, because iron hulls were more vulnerable to solid shot; iron was more brittle than wood, and iron frames more likely to fall out of shape than wood.

Wikipedia

Islanders General Manager Garth Snow told Newsday that Dubielewicz had reported to training camp last fall out of shape, which forced the team to start DiPietro in 33 of the first 35 games, overtiring him.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Her temperament hasn't fallen out of shape, either.

The New Yorker

He lost weight and fell out of shape, and the time he missed was one reason he began this season in the minors.

The New York Times

The swimmer had talked about gaining more than 30 pounds and falling out of shape during his truncated retirement.

Los Angeles Times

While he waited for his reinstatement, which he thought would not occur until the next season, he became depressed and fell out of shape.

Wikipedia

Living in an enclosure and being hand-fed all your meals is often a pretty lazy affair, as it turns out, and many animals in captivity are at risk of falling out of shape.

Vice

These are less likely to fall out than barbell shaped rings.

WikiHow

This seals in the crumbs that will be starting to fall out after cutting the wing shapes.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing physical fitness, use "fall out of shape" to describe a gradual decline rather than a sudden loss of condition. This phrase suggests a process of becoming less fit over time.

Common error

Avoid using "fall out of shape" to describe temporary fitness setbacks due to short-term illness or injury. This phrase is better suited for describing longer periods of inactivity or neglect of one's fitness routine.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fall out of shape" functions as an idiomatic verb phrase. It describes a process of losing physical fitness or a desired physical condition. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a common expression. Examples show its use in contexts related to athletes and general physical well-being.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

37%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "fall out of shape" is an idiomatic phrase used to describe a decline in physical fitness. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in English. While grammatically sound, it leans toward informal usage, with common occurrences in news and media, as well as wiki content. For formal contexts, consider alternatives like "lose physical condition" or "become unfit". Remember that this phrase suggests a gradual decline, not a sudden loss of fitness. This phrase is a great way to suggest someone has lost fitness or is less healthy over time.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lose condition

Emphasizes the loss of a desired physical state or health.

become unfit

Directly states the condition of lacking physical fitness.

get into poor condition

Highlights the process of declining physical condition.

lose fitness

Focuses on the reduction of one's fitness level.

deteriorate physically

Emphasizes the decline in physical health and capability.

get flabby

Suggests a loss of muscle tone and an increase in fat.

lose form

Refers to a decline in performance or physical appearance.

go to seed

Implies a decline from a previous state of vigor or excellence.

become rusty

Suggests a decline in skill or ability due to lack of use.

lose favor

Indicates a decrease in popularity or approval.

FAQs

How can I describe the process of losing physical fitness?

You can use the phrase "fall out of shape" to describe a gradual decline in physical condition due to inactivity or poor habits.

What's a more direct way to say "fall out of shape"?

Alternatives include "become unfit" or "lose condition", depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it appropriate to use "fall out of shape" in formal writing?

While understandable, "fall out of shape" leans towards informal. In formal contexts, consider using "lose physical condition" or "experience a decline in fitness".

What are some common reasons people "fall out of shape"?

Common causes include inactivity due to injury, busy schedules, changes in lifestyle, or simply a lack of consistent exercise and healthy eating habits.