is shaped

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is shaped" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe how something is formed, influenced, or molded by various factors. Example: "The landscape is shaped by centuries of erosion and weathering."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

One trap is shaped like a funnel.

The New York Times

Macao's is shaped like a rabbit.

The New York Times

This question is shaped by two forces.

The New York Times

The restaurant is shaped like a horseshoe.

The New York Times - Food

Legislation is shaped to benefit their industries.

The Guardian

ONE is shaped like a bitten doughnut.

The New York Times - Travel

That's why Toblerone is shaped like that.

The Guardian

Our plan is shaped by our values.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

My profession is shaping eyebrows.

The New York Times

Campaigns, Inc., is shaping American politics still.

The New Yorker

STEINBERG: This is shaping up.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is shaped" to clearly indicate that an entity's form, character, or development is the result of specific influences or forces. For example, "The policy is shaped by economic considerations" clearly conveys the causal relationship.

Common error

Ensure the subject of the sentence is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For instance, instead of saying "Shaped by experiences," specify "His character is shaped by his experiences" to maintain clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is shaped" functions as a passive verb construction, indicating that the subject receives the action of being formed or influenced. It is used to describe how something has been molded or influenced by certain factors. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is shaped" is a versatile and commonly used passive construction to describe the formation or influence on a subject by external factors. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness, noting its prevalence across various contexts like news, science, and general writing. It is suitable for neutral registers and is best used with a clearly defined subject. While alternatives like "is influenced" or "is formed" exist, "is shaped" effectively communicates the idea of something being molded or given form. Recognizing potential misuses, such as ambiguity with unclear subjects, helps ensure its correct and impactful application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is molded

Emphasizes the process of being formed or influenced into a particular shape or form, often implying a more hands-on or deliberate action.

is influenced

Focuses on the impact of external forces on something, suggesting a change in character or development.

is formed

Highlights the creation or development of something, often from a less defined state.

is determined

Stresses the definitive influence of certain factors on the outcome or nature of something.

is crafted

Implies a careful and skillful creation process, suggesting attention to detail and artistic intent.

is fashioned

Suggests creating something stylish or elegant, often implying a transformation from raw materials.

is sculpted

Emphasizes the removal of material to create a specific form, often associated with artistic expression.

is structured

Focuses on the arrangement and organization of elements within something, often implying a deliberate design.

is designed

Highlights the planning and intentional creation of something for a specific purpose.

is contoured

Focuses on the outline and external form of something, often emphasizing aesthetic appeal.

FAQs

How can I use "is shaped" in a sentence?

Use "is shaped" to describe how something is formed or influenced by external factors. For example, "The city's culture "is shaped by" its diverse population".

What are some alternatives to "is shaped"?

Alternatives include "is influenced by", "is formed by", or "is molded by", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How does "is shaped" differ from "shapes"?

"Is shaped" is in the passive voice, indicating that the subject is acted upon. "Shapes" is active, indicating that the subject is performing the action. For example, "Culture is shaped by society" versus "Society shapes culture".

Is it always necessary to include 'by' after "is shaped"?

While often followed by 'by' to indicate the influencing factor, it's not always necessary. For example, "The clay is shaped" is grammatically correct, though it doesn't specify the agent of shaping.