shape the narrative

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "shape the narrative" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the influence or control over how a story or situation is presented or perceived. Example: "The marketing team worked hard to shape the narrative around the product launch to ensure it resonated with consumers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Shape the narrative.

Harvard Business Review

But even before the debate, Mr. Axelrod was eager to shape the narrative.

The New York Times

These choices shape the narrative and affect Turner's relationships with his manager and squad mates.

The Guardian - Tech

The Taliban can shape the narrative about attacks sometimes before NATO public affairs even puts out a statement.

The New York Times

"That's very controlled now, and they spend so much money trying to figure out how to shape the narrative.

The Guardian - Tech

There is a literary dividend to such initiatives, and it is beginning to shape the narrative of the book.

The Guardian - Books

The inventiveness that saved this brave boy from snowy oblivion doesn't help shape the narrative he writes.

The New York Times - Books

Obviously since it's about your life, you knew how the story would end, but did you have a sense of the shape the narrative would take?

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Bob Rosen, who became a full-time sports statistician in 1969, loves the numbers that shape the narratives of sports.

The New Yorker

But it was the ideal job for Rosen, who loves the numbers that shape the narratives of sports.

The New Yorker

But who is shaping the narrative that comes with them?

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In storytelling contexts, use "shape the narrative" when characters or authors consciously manipulate the plot or perspective to achieve a specific effect.

Common error

Avoid using "shape the narrative" when simply describing events. The phrase implies intent and manipulation, which may not always be present or appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "shape the narrative" functions as a verb phrase, where "shape" acts as a transitive verb taking "the narrative" as its direct object. It describes the action of influencing or molding a story or account. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "shape the narrative" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression for describing intentional efforts to influence perception, as confirmed by Ludwig. It is particularly common in News & Media and Academic contexts. When using this phrase, it's important to consider the intent behind the action and the potential for manipulation. Alternatives such as "mold the story" or "craft the narrative" can offer nuances in meaning. Avoid overusing the phrase in contexts where manipulation is not intended. Be mindful of using the phrase's implications when writing in order to keep a professional tone in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mold the story

This alternative uses "mold" instead of "shape", implying a more hands-on, transformative influence on the story.

craft the narrative

Using "craft" suggests a deliberate and skillful construction of the narrative.

influence the narrative

This option uses a broader term, "influence", indicating a less direct form of control compared to "shape".

control the narrative

This phrase implies a stronger degree of dominance and authority over the narrative.

direct the narrative

Similar to "control", but suggests guiding or steering the narrative in a specific direction.

frame the narrative

This alternative focuses on the way the narrative is presented or positioned.

formulate the narrative

Using "formulate" suggests developing the narrative from the ground up.

construct the narrative

This emphasizes the building or assembling of the narrative.

fashion the narrative

"Fashion" suggests creating the narrative with style and attention to detail.

orchestrate the narrative

This implies a careful and coordinated manipulation of the narrative elements.

FAQs

How can I use "shape the narrative" in a sentence?

You can use "shape the narrative" to describe attempts to influence how a story or event is perceived, such as, "The campaign aimed to "shape the narrative" around the new policy".

What are some alternatives to "shape the narrative"?

Alternatives include "mold the story", "craft the narrative", or "influence the narrative", each with slightly different connotations.

Is it better to say "shape the narrative" or "control the narrative"?

"Shape the narrative" suggests a more subtle influence, while "control the narrative" implies a stronger, more direct manipulation. The best choice depends on the context and the degree of influence being exerted.

In what contexts is "shape the narrative" most appropriate?

"Shape the narrative" is particularly appropriate in discussions of politics, public relations, and media strategy, where influencing perception is a key objective.