in various shapes

USAGE SUMMARY

"in various shapes" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe something that is not a standard shape, or to imply that something comes in different, non-standard shapes. For example: "This dessert is popular in various shapes, from cupcakes to layer cakes to muffins."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

The devices come in various shapes, the most popular models including pens, pointers and square ones with a loop for keys.

The New York Times

Internships come in various shapes and sizes.

The New York Times

This week choral music in various shapes and forms dominates.

The New York Times

Literary transvestites come in various shapes and sizes.

Independent

There are about 150 of them, in various shapes and sizes, scattered across Nassau and Suffolk.

The New York Times

Earlier kettles came in various shapes and sizes, but their purpose was, almost without exception, utilitarian.

Harvard Business Review

The first half is dominated by photographs in various shapes and guises, including mural-size images.

The New York Times - Arts

The worst was my collection of metal plant supports in various shapes and sizes.

The Washington Post

There are 25 of them on the L.I.R.R. concourse, in various shapes and sizes.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

These deals come in various shapes and sizes.

Forbes

Children's savings accounts, like those for adults, come in various shapes and sizes – instant access, regular saver, fixed-rate bond and so on.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in various shapes" to emphasize the diversity and adaptability of an object, concept, or system. This phrase is particularly effective when illustrating how something can manifest in numerous forms to suit different needs or contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "shape" redundantly in the same sentence. Instead of saying "the sculptures came in various shapes of different shapes", opt for "the sculptures came "in various shapes" and sizes" or "the sculptures exhibited a variety of forms".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in various shapes" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a noun or verb by describing the diverse forms or configurations something can take. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely accepted and used in standard English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

20%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

4%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in various shapes" is a versatile and commonly used prepositional phrase that highlights the diversity in forms or configurations. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and usability in written English. It is particularly effective in describing the adaptable and multifaceted nature of objects, concepts, or systems. While applicable across various registers, it is most frequently found in news and media, scientific writing, and general knowledge contexts. To maintain clarity and precision, it's important to avoid redundant usage of "shape" and to consider alternative phrases like "in diverse forms" or "in assorted configurations" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in diverse forms

Emphasizes the variety in the way something is presented or structured.

in assorted configurations

Highlights the different arrangements or layouts something can take.

in multiple formats

Focuses on the different ways something can be presented or formatted.

in different guises

Suggests a change in outward appearance or form, often implying a deceptive element.

in varied designs

Highlights the range of styles and patterns something can have.

in a multitude of forms

Indicates a large number of different ways something can exist or appear.

in a range of styles

Focuses on the variety of aesthetic approaches or methods used.

in several configurations

Implies a limited number of arrangements or layouts.

under different appearances

Stresses the external aspect and its variability.

exhibiting varied forms

Highlights the act of showing or displaying different forms.

FAQs

How can I use "in various shapes" in a sentence?

Use "in various shapes" to describe items or concepts that come in multiple forms. For instance, "Cookies can be baked "in various shapes", such as stars, hearts, and circles."

What are some alternatives to "in various shapes"?

You can use alternatives like "in diverse forms", "in assorted configurations", or "in multiple formats" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "in various shape" instead of "in various shapes"?

No, the correct phrase is "in various shapes". "Shapes" is plural because "various" indicates more than one shape.

What is the difference between "in various shapes" and "in various forms"?

"In various shapes" specifically refers to the external configuration or outline of something, while "in various forms" is broader and can refer to the overall structure or presentation.