fit in the box

USAGE SUMMARY

"fit in the box" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It can be used in various contexts, but it often refers to something physically fitting inside a box or something figuratively fitting into a specific category or situation. Example sentence: "I couldn't find a bigger box, so I had to carefully arrange the items to make them fit in the box."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

Scarves, pens, socks, hats…if it fit in the box, the gator consumed it!

Princeton University

I wear this social mask – but I don't fit in the box.

The Guardian

"Do those who fit in the box of school do better?

The New York Times

"Maybe it's society that doesn't want uniqueness right now; they want people who fit in the box," Ms. Radvanovsky said.

The New York Times - Arts

"The postmaster said there was too much mail to fit in the box!" crowed Mr. Rubenstein, who is also an editor at an Internet news site.

The New York Times

Holding a severed, bespectacled goose head above a goose torso not far from a carton labeled "Antitrust," Feds tells the head, "We want you to lay smaller eggs and make 'em square, so they fit in the box".

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

However, it's interesting - when you don't fit into the box in our society, you're persecuted.

HuffPost

Be sure that the box you buy will fit the comics you have (older ones vary in size) and that the box you buy fit properly in the box as well.

WikiHow

"Basically, you can take the mess under your desk," he said, "fit it in the box without even unplugging any of the cables, and put the lid on it".

The New York Times

Cut the seed cups down to fit snugly in the box (about one regular and one half tray) Fill seed cups with potting soil and wet thoroughly, then plant seeds.

WikiHow

Whether the "something beyond themselves" is God, society, the earth or karma, it is both unskillful and unfruitful to dismiss them outright, simply for not fitting in the boxes we have either inherited or designed.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing abstract concepts, consider whether "fit in the box" accurately conveys the intended meaning or if a more nuanced phrase related to conformity or categorization would be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "fit in the box" too often in abstract contexts. Over-reliance can dilute its impact. Use more specific phrasing to convey your ideas.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fit in the box" primarily functions as a verb phrase. It describes the action of something being able to be contained within a defined space or, metaphorically, conforming to a set of expectations or a specific category. The Ludwig examples show it being used both literally and figuratively.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Wiki

27%

Academia

18%

Less common in

Science

9%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "fit in the box" is a phrase used to describe the physical ability of an object to be contained within a box, or metaphorically, the conformity of something to a specific category or expectation. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and generally used across varied contexts. The phrase appears most frequently in News & Media and Wiki sources. While versatile, it's best to use it thoughtfully and avoid over-reliance in abstract contexts. Related phrases like ""conform to expectations"" or "be contained within" can provide more nuanced communication when needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be small enough for

Specifically references a size constraint, mirroring a box's limited dimensions.

be suitable for the space

Highlights appropriateness for a specific location, similar to fitting in a box.

be contained within

Focuses on being enclosed or limited by something, similar to a box.

slot into a category

Denotes classification within a defined group, shifting the focus from physical space.

conform to expectations

Emphasizes adherence to standards or norms, differing from physical containment.

match the criteria

Stresses fulfilling defined standards, unlike a physical fitting.

meet the requirements

Focuses on fulfilling necessary criteria, rather than physical fit.

adhere to guidelines

Highlights compliance with established rules, unlike literal fitting.

be compatible with

Suggests harmonious coexistence or functional alignment, not physical size.

fall into place

Implies seamless integration or arrangement, instead of fitting into a container.

FAQs

How can I use "fit in the box" in a sentence?

You can use "fit in the box" to describe physical objects that can be contained within a box, or metaphorically to describe ideas or people that conform to a specific category or expectation. For example: "These toys easily fit in the box", or "Society often pressures individuals to "conform to expectations" and "fit in the box"".

What can I say instead of "fit in the box"?

You can use alternatives like "be contained within", "slot into a category", or ""conform to expectations"" depending on the context.

Is it ever inappropriate to use the phrase "fit in the box"?

While generally acceptable, overuse of the phrase, particularly in abstract contexts, can reduce its effectiveness. Consider more specific language when precise communication is essential. The phrase should be avoided in formal contexts where more precise language is needed.

What does it mean to "think outside the box" in relation to "fit in the box"?

Thinking outside the box is the opposite of "fit in the box". Thinking outside the box means being creative and innovative, while "fit in the box" means conforming to existing norms or limitations.