in the shape of

USAGE SUMMARY

"in the shape of" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used when comparing an object with something else that has a specific shape. For example, "The statue is carved in the shape of an eagle."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It's in the shape of an embrace".

The New York Times

Macaroni in the shape of donkeys.

The New York Times

Macaroni in the shape of elephants.

The New York Times

Some even came in the shape of the state.

The New York Times

It's in the shape of a man and woman entwined.

The New York Times - Arts

One was in the shape of a spreading palm tree.

The Guardian - Opinion

She wore earrings in the shape of a star.

The New York Times - Sports

Jones, 35, is in the shape of her life.

The New York Times

I see it in the shape of their faces.

The New Yorker

a sugar and creamer in the shape of two mushrooms.

The New Yorker

"In the shape of a dildo up my ass!" Sassy!

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in the shape of" to clearly describe the form or outline of an object, especially when comparing it to a recognizable figure or symbol. For example, "The cloud was in the shape of a heart."

Common error

Avoid using "in the shape of" when describing someone's physical condition. Instead, use "in shape" or "out of shape" to indicate fitness levels. For example, say "He is in shape" rather than "He is in the shape of fit."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in the shape of" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically modifying a noun or pronoun. It describes the form or outline of something by comparing it to a recognizable object or figure. Ludwig provides numerous examples illustrating this function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Wiki

14%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in the shape of" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to describe the form or outline of an object, often by comparing it to something else. Ludwig highlights its frequent use in news, media and wiki contexts, indicating a generally neutral tone. It's important to remember that while grammatically sound and widely accepted, as affirmed by Ludwig AI, it should not be confused with phrases used to describe physical fitness (e.g., "in shape"). Using alternatives like "shaped like" or "resembling" can add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shaped like

This is a more concise way of expressing the same idea, focusing on the resulting form.

formed as

Emphasizes the process of creation or formation into a particular shape.

resembling

Highlights the similarity in appearance to another object or form.

in the form of

Indicates a particular manifestation or structure.

configured as

Focuses on the arrangement or structure into a specific shape.

molded into

Suggests that the object was physically shaped or transformed.

cut out in the likeness of

Implies the object was created or designed to represent a specific entity.

bearing the imprint of

Suggests the shape is a result of an impression or a mark.

fashioned as

Indicates a deliberate and often artistic shaping of something.

contoured like

Highlights the outline or external form resembling something else.

FAQs

How can I use "in the shape of" in a sentence?

Use "in the shape of" to describe an object's form or outline, especially when comparing it to something else. For example, "The cookies were "shaped like" stars" or "The island is "formed as" a crescent moon".

What are some alternatives to "in the shape of"?

Alternatives include "shaped like", "resembling", "in the form of", or "configured as". Choose the best fit based on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "in shape of" instead of "in the shape of"?

No, the correct phrase is "in the shape of". Omitting "the" is grammatically incorrect when describing an object's form.

What's the difference between "in the shape of" and "in the form of"?

While both indicate a specific configuration, "in the shape of" generally refers to the external outline or appearance, whereas ""in the form of"" can refer to a more abstract or conceptual structure.