in its best shape

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in its best shape" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is in optimal condition or performing at its highest level. Example: "The car has been well-maintained and is now running in its best shape."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

If it's not in its best shape, start fixing that early.

WikiHow

It suggested that the services sector was in its best shape since October.In the Netherlands, industrial production contracted by 0.7% in the year to April.

The Economist

BRITAIN'S economy is in its best shape for several decades.

The Economist

Some said Iran's economy was in its best shape ever and poised to emerge as a world powerhouse.

The New York Times

And today, Mexico, where the economy is in its best shape in years, said its second-quarter growth rate reached 7.6percentt, far above expectations.

The New York Times

In this performance it was heartening to see the corps de ballet of swan-maidens in its best shape since the 1980s — and rhythmically more alert than in those days.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

Intel finds itself in a passel of antitrust and competition-rigging trouble, right as it competitively enters this upturn in by far its best shape in decades over its one and only rival, Advanced Micro Devices.

Forbes

Meanwhile, it says Tesla itself is in its best financial shape ever, putting it in a good position to execute on the acquisition.

TechCrunch

While it isn't proven that healthy practices prevent getting a cold or flu, a healthy lifestyle helps your immune system to be in its best possible shape, giving you the best chance of being able to fight off the onset of a cold or flu.

WikiHow

Williams arrived at training camp in February having lost weight and was in his best shape in years.

The New York Times - Sports

"He's in his best shape ever -- he can go 15 rounds.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the state of something that has been improved or restored, use "in its best shape" to emphasize the positive change. For example: "After the renovation, the building is now in its best shape."

Common error

Avoid using "in its best shape" when describing something that has always been in good condition. This phrase is most effective when highlighting a noticeable improvement or restoration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in its best shape" typically functions as an adjective phrase. It modifies a noun, indicating that the noun is in an optimal or superior condition. This is supported by the examples provided by Ludwig, where it describes diverse entities such as economies, bodies, or equipment.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

12%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in its best shape" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to indicate that something is in optimal condition or performing at its highest level. As highlighted by Ludwig, its usage spans various contexts, notably in news and media, to describe entities ranging from economies to physical fitness. While adaptable, it maintains a neutral to formal register, making it suitable for diverse forms of communication. When writing, consider that this phrase works best when emphasizing a recent improvement or restoration. Alternatives such as "in peak condition" or "in top form" can be used to provide a nuanced perspective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in peak condition

Emphasizes the highest possible state of fitness or readiness.

in top form

Highlights excellent performance or capability.

at its finest

Focuses on achieving the highest quality or standard.

in optimal condition

Stresses the ideal or most favorable state.

in prime condition

Suggests a state of being ready for the best results.

in tip-top shape

An informal way of saying something is in very good condition.

in excellent working order

Specifically refers to the functional state of something.

performing optimally

Emphasizes the active process of achieving the best possible result.

at its peak

Indicates the highest point of achievement or development.

in superior condition

Highlights a state that is above average or standard.

FAQs

What does it mean when something is described as being "in its best shape"?

When something is described as being "in its best shape", it means that it is currently in its most optimal condition, performing at its peak, or has been improved to a superior state.

How can I use "in its best shape" in a sentence?

You can use "in its best shape" to describe anything that can be in a physical or metaphorical condition. For instance, you can say, "After the repairs, the car is "in its best shape"" or "The economy is "in its best shape" after the new policies were implemented."

What are some alternatives to saying "in its best shape"?

Alternatives to "in its best shape" include "in peak condition", "in top form", or "at its finest". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "in its best shape"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to say "in its best shape". The phrase follows standard English grammar rules and is widely used and understood.