in satisfactory shape

USAGE SUMMARY

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

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"I try only to write clearly and I have the very good fortune to think clearly so that the writing comes out as I think, in satisfactory shape". He wrote his first drafts on his typewriter, and short articles and final drafts on a word processor, and he rewrote everything only once.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

He said they were in satisfactory condition.

The New Yorker

He was in satisfactory condition today in Warren Memorial Hospital.

The New York Times

Mr. Johnson, 30, was hospitalized in satisfactory condition.

The New York Times

He was listed in satisfactory condition at Bellevue Hospital Center last night.

The New York Times

Mr. Monfort remains at Harborview Medical Center in satisfactory condition.

The New York Times

Returning the VDV21 in satisfactory condition.

TechCrunch

The remaining victims were in satisfactory condition.

Los Angeles Times

A 24-year-old man was hospitalized in satisfactory condition.

Huffington Post

State-run newspapers said he was in satisfactory condition.

Los Angeles Times

to keep your body in satisfactory condition.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the state of an object or a person's health, use "in satisfactory shape" to convey an adequate but not necessarily excellent condition. For example, "After the surgery, the patient is now in satisfactory shape."

Common error

Avoid using "in satisfactory shape" when you mean something is in excellent condition. This phrase implies adequacy, not superiority. Using it inappropriately can mislead your audience about the true state of affairs.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in satisfactory shape" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase modifying a noun or pronoun. It describes the condition or state of something, indicating that it meets a certain acceptable standard, as Ludwig AI confirms.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

30%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in satisfactory shape" is a prepositional phrase used to describe something that is in an acceptable or adequate condition. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While not extremely common, it appears frequently enough in news, media, scientific, and wiki contexts to be considered a valid and useful expression. It implies a state that is neither excellent nor poor, but rather meets a minimum standard. When writing, be sure to use it appropriately to convey the precise level of quality intended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in acceptable condition

Focuses on the condition being merely acceptable, possibly implying a lower standard than satisfactory.

in good order

Emphasizes that something is well-arranged or functioning correctly.

in decent form

Highlights the appearance or presentability of something.

in adequate state

Similar to acceptable condition, but can also imply something is just sufficient.

in reasonable nick

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

in working order

Specifically refers to functionality and the ability to operate.

adequately maintained

Implies that something has been properly looked after and kept in a usable state.

sufficiently prepared

Focuses on readiness and being properly equipped for a task or situation.

serviceable condition

Highlights that something is fit for use and able to perform its intended function.

passable state

Indicates something is barely acceptable or good enough to meet a minimum standard.

FAQs

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

You can use "in satisfactory shape" to describe something that is in an acceptable or adequate condition. For example, "The car is now "in satisfactory shape" after the repairs" or "The patient is "in satisfactory shape" after the treatment".

What is a good alternative to "in satisfactory shape"?

Alternatives to "in satisfactory shape" include "in acceptable condition", "in good order", or "in decent form". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "in satisfactory shape" in formal writing?

Yes, "in satisfactory shape" is appropriate for formal writing, but it's important to consider the context. If you need to emphasize a higher level of quality or condition, consider using stronger alternatives like "in excellent condition" or "in optimal state".

What does "in satisfactory shape" imply about the condition of something?

"In satisfactory shape" implies that something meets a minimum acceptable standard. It is not necessarily outstanding, but it is adequate for its intended purpose. Consider alternatives if you want to express a higher or lower quality.