shaped like

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "shaped like" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe the appearance of an object. For example, "The cake was shaped like a heart."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Bottles shaped like breasts!

The New York Times

One trap is shaped like a funnel.

The New York Times

Some are shaped like snakes or birds.

The New York Times

A telephone shaped like a sports car.

The New York Times

Macao's is shaped like a rabbit.

The New York Times

"Will it still be shaped like rods?

The New York Times

The shoes were shaped like glittering hooves.

The New York Times

Shaped like a sea-shell?

The Guardian - Books

I am not shaped like Bardot.

The New Yorker

The restaurant is shaped like a horseshoe.

The New York Times - Food

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

It's shaped like Kitty's ribbon.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "shaped like" to provide a clear and concise visual description, enhancing clarity and imagery in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "shape of" when you intend to use "shaped like". "Shape of" refers to the general form, while "shaped like" describes a specific resemblance to something else. For example, use "The cloud was shaped like a heart" not "The cloud was shape of a heart".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "shaped like" functions as a prepositional phrase used to describe the form or appearance of something by comparing it to another object or entity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

14%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "shaped like" is a versatile and grammatically sound construction used to describe the appearance of something by comparing it to a known object. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely accepted and frequently used in various contexts, particularly in news, media and scientific publications. When using "shaped like", ensure that the comparison is clear and contributes to a more vivid understanding of the described object. Avoid the common error of substituting it with "shape of" when describing resemblance. By following these guidelines, you can effectively incorporate "shaped like" into your writing to enhance clarity and imagery.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

resembling the form of

Focuses on the similarity in shape, but can imply a less precise resemblance.

constructed like

Highlights the method of construction in achieving a particular shape.

formed in the likeness of

Emphasizes that the shape is intentionally created to resemble something else.

contoured to resemble

Indicates a smooth, flowing shape designed to mimic something else.

having the appearance of

Highlights the visual aspect of the shape rather than the structural form.

fashioned in the style of

Suggests a deliberate creation with a specific stylistic influence on the shape.

molded into the semblance of

Implies that the shape was achieved through a molding or shaping process to create a likeness.

cut in the design of

Specifically used when the shape is achieved through cutting or carving.

cast in the mold of

Applicable when the shape is created using a mold, often for mass production.

built in the image of

Used when the shape is part of a larger structure and is built to resemble something.

FAQs

How can I use "shaped like" in a sentence?

You can use "shaped like" to describe the form or structure of something by comparing it to a known object. For example, "The island is shaped like a crescent moon."

What are some alternatives to "shaped like"?

Alternatives include "resembling", "having the form of", or "fashioned after" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "shaped like" and "in the shape of"?

While both phrases describe the form of an object, "shaped like" implies a more direct comparison. "In the shape of" is more general. For example, "The cookie was shaped like a star" is slightly more specific than "The cookie was in the shape of a star".

When is it appropriate to use "shaped like" in formal writing?

"Shaped like" is generally acceptable in most writing contexts, including formal writing, as long as it provides a clear and accurate description. Consider alternatives like "resembling" or "having the form of" for a more formal tone if needed.