in great shape

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in great shape" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is in good physical condition or functioning well. Example: "After months of training, I feel like I'm in great shape for the marathon."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

News & Media - Sports

News & Media - Travel

News & Media - Arts

News & Media - Film

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We are in great shape".

The New York Times

He was in great shape.

The New Yorker

We're in great shape.

The Guardian

Original hardwood floors are in great shape.

The New York Times

And she was in great shape.

The New York Times

Nor is its batting in great shape.

The New York Times - Sports

Lukas himself was not in great shape.

The New York Times - Sports

Neiman is already in great shape.

The Economist

This parador was in great shape, too.

The New York Times - Travel

All were in great shape.

The New York Times

I was in great shape.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in great shape" to describe physical fitness, the condition of an object, or the state of an organization. Ensure the context is clear to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify what is "in great shape" if it isn't immediately obvious.

Common error

Avoid using "in great shape" when a more specific term is appropriate. For instance, instead of saying a financial portfolio is "in great shape", use terms like "performing well" or "showing strong returns" to provide clarity and precision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in great shape" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe its condition or state. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it indicates that someone or something is in a good or excellent state of health, fitness, or working order. Examples include describing a person's physical condition or the state of an organization.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

News & Media - Sports

15%

News & Media - Travel

5%

Less common in

News & Media - Arts

3%

News & Media - Film

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in great shape" is a common and versatile expression used to describe something or someone in excellent condition. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, primarily in news and media. While it's generally considered neutral in register, more formal alternatives like "in excellent condition" may be appropriate for professional settings. To avoid ambiguity, ensure the context is clear when using this phrase. Overall, "in great shape" is a reliable way to convey a positive assessment of a subject's status or condition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in excellent condition

Replaces "shape" with "condition", focusing on the overall state of something.

in top form

Emphasizes peak performance or capability.

in tip-top condition

Similar to "in excellent condition" but adds emphasis.

in prime condition

Implies being in the best possible state for a specific purpose.

in peak physical condition

Highlights physical fitness and athletic readiness.

as fit as a fiddle

An idiom emphasizing excellent physical health and fitness.

in fine fettle

An idiomatic expression denoting good health and spirits.

fighting fit

Suggests a readiness for physical challenges or competition.

at its best

Indicates something is functioning or appearing in its optimal state.

hale and hearty

Focuses specifically on good health and vigor, often used for people.

FAQs

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

You can use "in great shape" to describe someone's physical condition, such as "After training for months, she is "in great shape" for the marathon". It can also refer to the condition of an object or organization.

What are some alternatives to "in great shape"?

Some alternatives include "in excellent condition", "in top form", or "hale and hearty", depending on the context.

Is "in great shape" formal or informal?

"In great shape" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives like "in excellent condition" might be preferred in certain situations.

Can I use "in great shape" to describe abstract concepts?

Yes, you can use "in great shape" to describe abstract concepts, such as saying "The project is "in great shape" for completion", meaning it's progressing well. However, ensure the context is clear.