shape in which

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "shape in which" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is commonly used when describing the physical appearance or structure of something. For example: - "The vase had a unique shape in which the curves and angles complemented each other perfectly." - "The sculpture was created in a shape in which the lines and edges flowed effortlessly." - "The mountain range had an interesting shape in which the peaks and valleys formed a breathtaking landscape."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Such decorum is not merely "formal" in the American sense; it is the shape in which common humanity finds expression.

The New York Times

A system of quotas took shape, in which no Ottoman territory should be more than ten per cent Armenian.

The New Yorker

Their bodies conformed to a common shape in which the hind legs were dominant and designed for support and locomotion.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It may see QE as another bullying tactic, but it is China's own actions that will determine the shape in which the world emerges from the financial crisis.

The Guardian - Opinion

Pasqualoni said he felt good with the shape in which he left the Huskies, adding that his last two recruiting classes were strong.

The New York Times - Sports

These artists, along with Maurice Denis and Ker Xavier Roussel, created paintings of unorthodox size and shape in which the importance of line and color superseded that of subject.

The New York Times - Arts

At the same time, a rival bid is taking shape in which Condé Nast Publications, the magazine publisher, is considering moving its headquarters from the heart of Times Square to a tower over the railyards.

The New York Times

Jupiter has been using Midas not only to provide more gold for Danae but also to provide himself with a human shape in which to woo her and remain undetected by his watchful wife, Juno.

The New York Times - Arts

Such symbols would go through many metamorphoses of shape in which the resemblance between each symbol and the object it stood for gradually disappeared, but its semantic meaning would become more precise.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The most common type of coil used in TMS is a figure-of-eight shape, in which the effects of the current add up where the wires meet in the coil's centre.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But some of Reason's combatants -- as if reading from the postmodernist strategy book -- are also challenging the heritage of the West, arguing that it, too, has been riddled with absolutist faith, that the reasoned achievements of the Enlightenment are still under threat and that a new understanding of the past must take shape, in which Reason's martyrdom and trials take center stage.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the geometry of an object, use "shape in which" to emphasize a specific characteristic of its form. For example: 'The crystal exhibited a unique tetrahedral "shape in which" each face was perfectly equilateral.'

Common error

Avoid overusing "shape in which" when simpler alternatives like "form" or "design" would suffice. Overly complex phrasing can make your writing sound pretentious or unclear.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "shape in which" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun by providing additional information about its form or structure. It clarifies a specific characteristic of something's shape. Ludwig AI confirms the validity and common usage of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

34%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "shape in which" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase, employed to precisely describe the physical characteristics of a subject. It is versatile, fitting into a range of contexts from scientific discussions to news reports. Ludwig's examples confirm its wide acceptance and utility. While simpler alternatives exist, "shape in which" is valuable when specificity is required. Its prevalence in authoritative sources like The New York Times and Encyclopedia Britannica underscores its reliability and effectiveness in conveying detailed information about form and structure. By understanding its function and purpose, writers can effectively utilize "shape in which" to enhance the clarity and precision of their writing. While the phrase is valid and correct, Ludwig AI suggests considering simpler alternatives when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

form in which

Replaces "shape" with "form", emphasizing the external appearance or structure.

structure in which

Substitutes "shape" with "structure", highlighting the arrangement of parts within a whole.

configuration in which

Replaces "shape" with "configuration", emphasizing a specific arrangement or pattern.

manner in which

Shifts focus from physical appearance to the way something is done or happens.

way in which

Similar to "manner in which", but more general and applicable to a wider range of contexts.

fashion in which

Implies a style or method in which something is presented or carried out.

design in which

Highlights the purposeful arrangement or plan behind the form.

pattern in which

Emphasizes a recurring arrangement or sequence of elements.

mold in which

Implies a shaping or forming process, often under external influence.

guise in which

Suggests an outward appearance or presentation that may conceal the true nature.

FAQs

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

You can use "shape in which" to describe the specific form or structure of something. For instance: "The molecule adopts a specific "shape in which" its atoms are arranged to minimize energy."

What are some alternatives to using "shape in which"?

Depending on the context, you might use alternatives like "form in which", "structure in which", or "configuration in which".

Is there a difference between "shape in which" and "form in which"?

While similar, "shape in which" often refers to a more distinct or characteristic appearance, whereas "form in which" can be a more general reference to the external appearance.

When is it appropriate to use "shape in which" over simpler terms like "form" or "design"?

Use "shape in which" when you want to emphasize a particular attribute or characteristic of the "form" or "design", especially when it relates to function or purpose.