shape a plan

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "shape a plan" is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used to indicate the action of creating or formulating a plan. For example, "We need to shape a plan to have the project completed by next week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

In Chapter 11 alone, the debtor is given broad flexibility to shape a plan that fits the debtor's particular needs.

The New York Times

Cigarroa, sat down with a small group of advisers for nearly two days to shape a plan to move the system forward.

The New York Times

Joshua J. Sirefman, chief operating officer of the city's Economic Development Corporation, said the responses would help officials shape a plan to encourage commercial and job growth, rather than coming up with the plan and testing it later.

The New York Times

And while she has insisted that poll results will not alter her politics, she is coming under increasing pressure from ordinary Germans and her own conservative alliance to shape a plan that will have the effect of reducing the number of newcomers to Germany.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

In dismissing the idea, Senate leaders noted that Senator Edward M. Kennedy of Massachusetts, chairman of the health committee, planned to play the leading role in shaping a plan for universal coverage even as he battles brain cancer.

The New York Times

A plan that is 70 percent funded could be in fine shape, and a plan that is funded at 100 percent could be in lousy shape.

The New York Times

This is demonstrated using ho w private interest networks shape planning through plan violations and planning for violations as well as how public interest networks shape planning through multiple political, legal and administrative interventions, both of which together prevents the formation of any ideal typical planning system for a Comprehensive Master Planning Regime.

Progress in Planning

Because if we're trying to reduce the deficit, then we can shape a bipartisan plan to reduce the deficit.

The New York Times

A big complication in trying to shape a rescue plan for Varig is that other Brazilian airlines are also struggling.

The New York Times

They also invited the community to help shape a development plan for the ranch property, which was hemorrhaging millions of dollars a year.

The New York Times

Wilson said he thinks Videgaray was right to shape a contingency plan for a possible Trump victory, given Trump's threat to exit the North American Free Trade Agreement and levy a 35% tariff on products imported from Mexico.  .

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "shape a plan", consider the context and audience. In formal settings, more precise alternatives like "formulate a plan" might be preferable. In creative contexts, "craft a plan" can add nuance.

Common error

While "shape a plan" is acceptable, avoid overusing it in formal documents. Opt for alternatives like "develop a strategy" or "formulate a policy" for a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "shape a plan" primarily functions as a verb phrase, where "shape" acts as a transitive verb indicating the action of creating or giving form to "a plan". It often appears in sentences expressing intention or purpose, aligning with Ludwig's validation.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "shape a plan" is a grammatically correct and neutrally-toned phrase used to describe the process of creating or developing a plan. According to Ludwig AI, it's suitable for various contexts but is most frequently found in news and media sources. While acceptable, it's important to consider the context and audience, opting for more precise or formal alternatives when necessary. Related phrases include "develop a plan" and "formulate a plan", which can offer greater precision or formality depending on the specific situation. Overall, "shape a plan" is a versatile phrase with a solid foundation in reputable sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

develop a plan

Focuses on the process of growth and refinement in creating a plan.

formulate a plan

Highlights the systematic and precise nature of creating a plan.

devise a plan

Emphasizes ingenuity and inventiveness in creating a plan.

craft a plan

Implies careful and skillful creation of a plan.

design a plan

Highlights the structured and intentional aspects of creating a plan.

construct a plan

Focuses on building a plan piece by piece, often implying complexity.

mold a plan

Suggests adapting or altering a plan to fit specific needs or circumstances.

fashion a plan

Implies a creative and personalized approach to plan creation.

tailor a plan

Highlights the adaptation of a plan to suit particular requirements.

forge a plan

Emphasizes the effort and determination required to create a plan, often in challenging circumstances.

FAQs

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

You can use "shape a plan" to describe the process of developing or refining a strategy. For example, "The committee met to shape a plan for the upcoming marketing campaign".

What can I say instead of "shape a plan"?

You can use alternatives like "develop a plan", "formulate a plan", or "devise a plan" depending on the context.

Is "shape a plan" formal or informal?

"Shape a plan" is generally considered neutral in tone. For more formal contexts, consider using "formulate a plan" or "develop a plan". In creative contexts, you could use "craft a plan".

Which is correct, "shape a plan" or "shaping a plan"?

Both phrases are correct, but they have different grammatical functions. "Shape a plan" is often used as an infinitive phrase (e.g., "We need to shape a plan"), while "shaping a plan" is a gerund phrase (e.g., "Shaping a plan requires careful consideration").