molding

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "molding" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to shaping or forming something, whether literally (like molding clay) or metaphorically (like molding someone's character). Example: "The teacher played a crucial role in molding the students' critical thinking skills."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

In the simplest form of compression molding, a molding powder (or pellets, which are also sometimes called molding powder) is heated and at the same time compressed into a specific shape.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The two were both a bit freaked out, as their original plans revolved around producing a modest number through low-volume injection molding.

The Economist

Attempts at molding a bipartisan bill foundered after Republicans insisted that a new consumer-protection agency should have few powers.

The Economist

But he is right that mentoring the young players on his moribund hometown club and molding them into a contender perhaps with an assist from Mr Love would be a more difficult, impressive and lasting accomplishment.

The Economist

The latter then attempts to deprive of this power by putting him to sleep, extracting the power from 's rib, and molding it into the shape of a woman.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In the mid-1840s it was discovered to be a substance ideal for the easy and efficient manufacture of golf balls; the manufacturing process consisted simply of boiling a strip of gutta-percha, molding it into a spherical shape, and allowing it to dry.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Acetate was given further impetus by the development of injection molding, a rapid and efficient forming technique to which acetate was particularly amenable but to which celluloid could not be subjected owing to the high temperatures involved.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Candle-molding machinery, also developed in the 19th century, consists of rows of molds in a metal tank that is alternately heated and cooled.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The laborious process of hand-molding, which had been used for 3,000 years, was superseded by "pressed" bricks.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The criteria for such selections and re-molding activities culminating in the formation of a scientific concept are the specific preoccupation of the philosophy of science.

SEP

Steam-molding was introduced about that time, in which finished corsets were starched and shaped using steam.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a process where a material is given a specific shape, use "molding" to emphasize the act of conforming to a mold. For example, "The plastic was subjected to high-pressure molding to achieve the desired shape."

Common error

While "molding" can be used metaphorically to describe influencing something, avoid using it excessively in contexts where alternatives like "shaping" or "influencing" would be more appropriate and less literal. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive or awkward.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "molding" is as a noun, referring to the process or act of shaping something in a mold, or to an object created by this process. It also functions as a gerund or present participle in verb forms. Ludwig provides examples demonstrating both uses.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Encyclopedias

25%

News & Media

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "molding" is a versatile term used to describe the process of shaping materials or influencing development, as clarified by Ludwig AI. Grammatically, it functions primarily as a noun, but also as a verb in its gerund form. The word appears frequently in encyclopedias, news articles, and scientific texts. While "molding" itself is a correct and usable term, be aware of possible alternative such as "shaping" or "influencing", depending on the context. Overusing the term may also make your writing appear clumsy. Ludwig's analysis confirms that "molding" is a neutral and appropriate term across various registers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shaping

Focuses on the process of giving form to something, similar to molding but can imply a more gradual process.

forming

Emphasizes the creation of a specific shape or structure.

casting

Specifically refers to creating something by pouring a liquid into a mold.

fashioning

Implies skillful creation or adaptation.

sculpting

Suggests a more artistic and detailed shaping process.

influencing

Focuses on affecting the development or behavior of something or someone.

training

Relates to the process of developing skills or behavior through instruction.

developing

Highlights the gradual growth and evolution of something.

cultivating

Implies nurturing and fostering growth, often in a metaphorical sense.

transforming

Emphasizes a significant change in form or character.

FAQs

How can I use "molding" in a sentence?

"Molding" can be used to describe the process of shaping a material or influencing something. For example, "The artist used clay "molding" to create the sculpture", or "Parents play a key role in "molding" their children's values".

What words can I use instead of "molding"?

Depending on the context, you can use words like "shaping", "forming", "casting", or "influencing" as alternatives to "molding".

Is it correct to say "molding" or "moulding"?

"Molding" and "moulding" are both correct, but "molding" is the standard spelling in American English, while "moulding" is more common in British English. The choice depends on your audience.

What is the difference between "molding" and "casting"?

"Molding" is a general term for shaping a material. "Casting" specifically refers to pouring a liquid material into a mold and allowing it to harden. Therefore, casting is a type of "molding".