in acceptable shape

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in acceptable shape" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is in a satisfactory or suitable condition. Example: "After the repairs, the car is now in acceptable shape for the road trip."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Although our lobby is in acceptable shape, we believe he plans to do the same thing here to raise our rents.

The New York Times

Don't simply assume that existing tampons are in acceptable shape.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

It was in still in perfectly acceptable shape, but Young had plans.

BBC

Just as the battery companies find a new set of chemicals that offer solid performance in an acceptable shape, consumers are demanding more performance from their electronics — performance that uses more power.

The New York Times - Tech

The condition can be counteracted with a bit of intentional skull modification in the same spirit as the procedures used in prehistoric Australia, using headbands or cranial moulding helmets to return a more socially acceptable shape.

BBC

But what, exactly, is an acceptable shape?

The New Yorker

Synthesized G. crassa AgNP's were in acceptable size and shape.

Chemistry Central Journal

Now, the pK a values (9.34 and 10.45) of the TAP have been taken into consideration to design the mobile phase (Synder et al. 1997), so the acidic pH should be favored to elute the drug in a single peak with an acceptable peak shape because in acidic pH, it should be present in nonionic form.

Journal of Analytical Science and Technology

"Not in acceptable language, no," he said.

The New York Times

It remains arguable what an acceptable head shape is in young infants and at an older age when the head is covered with hair.

British Medical Journal

Finally, TAP was better resolved from the diluent peak without splitting with acceptable peak shape (no tailing and fronting) in 0.1% formic acid in water and acetonitrile (75:25).

Journal of Analytical Science and Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the condition of something, consider whether "in acceptable shape" accurately conveys the level of quality you intend. Alternatives like "in good condition" or "in excellent working order" may be more appropriate depending on the context.

Common error

While grammatically sound, "in acceptable shape" might sound less polished in formal contexts. Opt for more precise language that specifies the condition more clearly, such as "in satisfactory condition" or "in good working order".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in acceptable shape" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe its current condition. It indicates that something meets a certain standard of suitability or adequacy, as confirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in acceptable shape" is a prepositional phrase used to describe something that is in a satisfactory condition. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct. While versatile, the phrase is relatively rare. When aiming for clarity or formality, consider alternatives such as "in satisfactory condition" or "in good working order". The phrase appears in a variety of sources, including news outlets, wikis, and scientific publications, showing its broad applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in satisfactory condition

Replaces 'shape' with 'condition', emphasizing the overall state of being.

in good working order

Focuses on functionality, implying that something is operating as intended.

in decent condition

Similar to 'satisfactory condition' but may suggest a slightly lower standard.

in reasonable condition

Implies a state that meets basic requirements or expectations.

in proper form

Emphasizes adherence to standards or requirements, more formal.

in suitable state

Highlights appropriateness for a specific purpose.

in serviceable order

Focuses on the ability to be used or provide a service.

fit for purpose

Directly states that something is adequate for its intended use.

up to standard

Indicates that something meets a specific level of quality or requirement.

passes muster

Suggests that something has been approved or deemed acceptable after scrutiny.

FAQs

What does "in acceptable shape" mean?

The phrase "in acceptable shape" means that something is in a satisfactory or suitable condition, although it might not be perfect or in pristine condition.

What can I say instead of "in acceptable shape"?

You can use alternatives like "in satisfactory condition", "in good working order", or "in reasonable condition" depending on the context.

Is "in acceptable shape" formal or informal?

"In acceptable shape" is generally considered neutral. However, for more formal writing, consider using alternatives like "in satisfactory condition" or "in proper form".

How do I use "in acceptable shape" in a sentence?

You can use "in acceptable shape" to describe the state or condition of something. For example, "After the repairs, the car is now in acceptable shape for the road trip".