shift position

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "shift position" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate a change in position, either in the physical or figurative sense. For example, you might say "The defense shifted its position on the issue," or "She shifted her position on the sofa to get more comfortable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

Jacob Zuma, South Africa's president, said both developed and developing countries needed to shift position.

The Guardian

To help prevent tie-ups during the project, a median barrier will shift position during rushes.

The New York Times

Like the outfielders, the four infielders shift position to guard against each batter's individual strengths.

Encyclopedia Britannica

On a sofa her 10-year-old son, Khalil, winces in pain as he tries to shift position.

The Guardian

As a bird moves its head, the spots would shift position, allowing it to steer due north or south.

The Economist

The third-place entry, Solaris, envisages thousands of concave balloonlike solar units that shift position to respond to environmental conditions.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

Players shift positions all the time, usually without complaining.

The New York Times

Weathering It Advice abounds on weathering bed rest: Shift positions often, moving from side to side.

The New York Times - Health

Don't they hear the rustling that results every time they shift positions?

The New York Times - Arts

We do sit differently these days, and we should shift positions often.

The New York Times - Tech

There was no consensus; advisers would shift positions with time and circumstances.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a change in strategy or policy, use "shift position" to convey a deliberate alteration in approach. For example, "The company decided to shift position on its marketing strategy to target a younger demographic."

Common error

Avoid using "shift position" when a simple "move" or "change" will suffice in physical contexts. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "shift position" primarily functions as a verb phrase where "shift" is the verb and "position" is the noun acting as the direct object. Ludwig AI confirms that it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "shift position" is a versatile term used to describe a change in physical location, a modification in strategy, or an alteration in one's viewpoint. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used. The frequency of its occurrence is common, and its neutral register makes it appropriate for diverse contexts, including news, science, and general writing. Common alternatives include "alter location", "change stance", and "adjust alignment", each offering a nuanced variation of the original phrase. When using "shift position", be mindful of its figurative and literal meanings to ensure clarity and avoid unnecessary complexity in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

alter location

Focuses on the change in physical placement.

rearrange placement

Emphasizes the act of organizing location.

adjust alignment

Highlights a subtle change in orientation or configuration.

modify arrangement

Indicates a change in how something is organized.

readjust point of view

Refers to altering one's perspective or opinion.

change stance

Emphasizes a change in attitude or opinion.

move around

Simple and direct description of physical movement.

relocate

Refers to moving to a different location.

adjust bearings

Suggests a change in direction or orientation.

rethink strategy

Focuses on changing a plan or approach.

FAQs

How can I use "shift position" in a sentence?

You can use "shift position" to describe a change in physical location, like "The patient needed to "shift position" in bed to avoid pressure sores", or a change in opinion or strategy, such as "The government may "shift position" on the trade agreement after the recent economic data".

What are some alternatives to "shift position"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "alter location" for physical movement, "change stance" for opinions, or "adjust alignment" for strategies.

Is it correct to say "shifting position"?

Yes, "shifting position" is the present participle form and is often used to describe an ongoing action or state. For example, "The tectonic plates are constantly "shifting position"".

What is the difference between "change position" and "shift position"?

"Change position" and "shift position" are largely interchangeable, but "shift position" often implies a more subtle or strategic adjustment. Both "change position" and "shift position" indicate movement or alteration, but "shift" can suggest a more nuanced maneuver.