in sad shape

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in sad shape" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is in poor condition or not functioning well, often referring to physical objects, situations, or even emotional states. Example: "After the storm, the old barn was left in sad shape, with its roof partially collapsed and walls crumbling."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Forbes

Huffington Post

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Most in China are in sad shape.

The New York Times

"We're in sad shape," Mr. Oscarlece said.

The New York Times

Much of White Town is in sad shape.

The New York Times - Travel

Libya's oil industry was in sad shape even before the revolt.

The New York Times

Wherever you choose to look — at the economy and jobs, the public schools, the budget deficits, the nonstop warfare overseas — you'll see a country in sad shape.

The New York Times

The U.S. is in sad shape, and most of the policy prescriptions being tossed around by the movers and shakers are bad ones.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

And 50 years of rusting has left it in pretty sad shape.

The New York Times

They were in such sad shape, he said, that he initially wanted to shoot them to end their misery.

The New York Times

But even with Revlon in such sad shape, Mr. Perelman was loath to give up so many shares.

The New York Times

From fulfilling basic journalistic functions like fact-checking to more broader issues like editorial integrity, the standards of the press here is in a sad shape.

Huffington Post

Schmatta is the Yiddish word for rags in somewhat of a sad shape, as in, "wouldn't be caught dead in that schmatta".

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in sad shape", consider the specific aspect you want to emphasize: physical condition, emotional state, or overall situation. Choose the phrasing that best reflects the intended meaning.

Common error

Avoid overusing "in sad shape" for situations that require a more nuanced description. For instance, instead of saying a complex political situation is "in sad shape", provide specific details about the problems and challenges.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in sad shape" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to describe its current state or condition. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it describes something being in poor condition or not functioning well.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

16%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Science

9%

Reference

7%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in sad shape" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe something in poor condition. As Ludwig AI confirms, it effectively communicates a negative assessment across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While alternatives like "in poor condition" or "in bad condition" exist, understanding the specific nuance you wish to convey ensures the most accurate expression. Be mindful of the scope of the phrase and avoid overuse in situations requiring more detailed descriptions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in poor condition

Focuses on the physical or functional state of something being substandard.

in bad condition

Similar to "in poor condition" but may imply a more severe level of degradation.

in a sorry state

Highlights the pitiable or regrettable nature of the condition.

in a dilapidated state

Specifically describes something that has fallen into disrepair due to neglect.

in disrepair

Indicates a state of neglect and damage, often physical.

in a dire situation

Shifts the focus to the urgency and severity of the circumstances.

on its last legs

Suggests something is nearing the end of its functionality or existence.

in decline

Emphasizes the process of deterioration over time.

on the decline

Same as "in decline" but adds more emphasis on a process.

not doing well

A general phrase for when some situation, business, organization, person etc is not performing to the expected level.

FAQs

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

You can use "in sad shape" to describe something that is in poor condition or not functioning well. For example: "After years of neglect, the old house was "in sad shape"."

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

You can use alternatives like "in poor condition", "in bad condition", or "in a sorry state" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "in sad shape" or "in bad shape"?

Both ""in sad shape"" and "in bad shape" are correct, but "in bad shape" is more common. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "in sad shape" and "in desperate shape"?

"In sad shape" generally indicates poor condition or disrepair, while "in desperate shape" suggests a critical or urgent situation requiring immediate attention.