shape of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "shape of" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is most commonly used to describe the form or appearance of something. Example: The shape of the diamond was a perfect oval. In this sentence, "shape of" is used to describe the appearance of the diamond. This phrase can also be used for abstract concepts, such as "the shape of the future" or "the shape of her dreams."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Start by drawing a shape of body.

WikiHow

The Shape of Her.

The Economist

"The shape of a ship.

The New Yorker

The shape of sand is worn.

The New Yorker

He certainly altered the shape of Reconstruction.

The New York Times - Arts

The shape of future extensions is unclear.

The New York Times

It is the shape of the sun.

Independent

The new shape of fusion.

Science Magazine

The shape of it, the size.

BBC

"We changed the shape of the team.

BBC

"The Shape of Things" (2003).

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing abstract concepts, use "shape of" to convey the overall form or direction, such as "the shape of things to come".

Common error

Avoid using "shape of" when you mean "shaped like". "Shape of" describes the form itself, while "shaped like" describes a resemblance. For example, say "The cloud was shaped like a heart", not "The cloud was shape of a heart".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "shape of" functions primarily as a noun modifier, specifying the form or outline of a noun. It often introduces a descriptive element, as Ludwig AI confirms, by detailing the visual characteristics or structure of the subject. The examples show its use in both concrete descriptions (e.g., "the shape of the body") and abstract concepts (e.g., "the shape of the future").

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

42%

News & Media

35%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "shape of" is a grammatically sound and highly versatile expression used to describe the form or appearance of something, as verified by Ludwig AI. With a "Very common" frequency, it's found across diverse sources, from wikis to news outlets, denoting its broad applicability. While straightforward, it's essential to differentiate its use from "shaped like", which indicates resemblance rather than direct description. The analyzed examples, combined with writing guidance, offer a clear understanding of how to effectively incorporate "shape of" in both concrete and abstract contexts, ensuring clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

form of

Direct synonym, focusing on the external appearance or structure.

outline of

Emphasizes the boundary or external edge of something.

configuration of

Focuses on the arrangement and relationship of parts.

structure of

Highlights the internal organization and arrangement of components.

appearance of

Stresses the visual aspect and how something looks.

figure of

Suggests a specific form or outline, often used for human or animal forms.

contour of

Focuses on the external boundary and curves of an object.

design of

Highlights the intentional arrangement and aesthetic qualities.

dimensions of

Focuses on measurable aspects such as size and proportions.

nature of

While more abstract, it relates to the essential qualities that define something.

FAQs

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

The phrase "shape of" is used to describe the form or appearance of something. For example, "The "shape of the earth" is an oblate spheroid."

What are some alternatives to "shape of"?

You can use alternatives such as "form of", "outline of", or "configuration of" depending on the specific context and the aspect you want to emphasize.

Is it correct to say "the shape of things" or "the shape of things to come"?

Yes, both are correct. "The "shape of things"" generally refers to the current state of affairs, while "the "shape of things to come"" refers to future developments.

What's the difference between "shape of" and "shaped like"?

"Shape of" describes the actual form, while "shaped like" indicates a resemblance. For instance, "The "shape of the table" is rectangular" versus "The cookie was "shaped like a star"".