take shape around

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "take shape around" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the process of something forming or developing in relation to another object or idea. Example: "The project began to take shape around the initial concept we discussed in our last meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

The world we're starting to see take shape around us.

The Guardian

Now, he is relieved to see the walls of a panelled room take shape around him.

The Guardian - Books

Zealandia began to take shape around 85 million years ago, making it relatively young.

Nature

This alternative "indie media" infrastructure started to take shape around the Seattle World Trade Organization protests several years ago.

MIT Technology Review

American life, as he describes it, simply lacks the fretwork of close, sometimes constricting relationships that take shape around a Russian practically from birth.

The New York Times

LONDON - As new rules to regulate banks take shape around the world, the banks are increasingly seeking ways to soften the impact.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

Aside from technology, other suggestions took shape around more specific policy options – such as intensive investment in education of girls, which is seen as vital in mitigating the effects of climate change.

The Guardian

Since Napoleon's death in 1821, a legend had taken shape around his name.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Ms. Gillibrand's political education took shape around her childhood dinner table.

The New York Times

The grey-dawn bedroom takes shape around me. "Yeah," I say.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

And as new alliances took shape around old enmities, chaos, mayhem and anarchy engulfed the region.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "take shape around" when describing the evolution or development of something in relation to a central element or theme. For instance, "The new curriculum will take shape around the needs of the students."

Common error

Avoid using "take shape around" if there isn't a clear, defined central element influencing the development. Otherwise, the phrase becomes vague and lacks specific meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take shape around" functions as a verb phrase indicating the process by which something develops or forms in relation to a central theme, object, or idea. As Ludwig AI suggests, it correctly depicts gradual evolution. Examples illustrate its ability to describe both concrete developments and abstract formations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

20%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "take shape around" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to depict the process of development or formation in relation to a central element. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression follows standard grammar rules and is appropriate for written English. It's commonly found in news, scientific, and academic contexts. When using this phrase, ensure there is a clearly defined central element to avoid vagueness. Alternatives like ""form around"" or "develop around" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

form around

A more general term for physical or conceptual formation.

develop around

Suggests a gradual evolution or growth process.

coalesce around

Implies a coming together of different elements.

revolve around

Indicates a central focus or core aspect.

center on

Highlights the main subject or point of interest.

be structured around

Focuses on the organizational aspect.

grow up around

More literal, suggesting physical growth or development.

be built upon

Focuses on the establishment of an idea or concept.

originate from

Expresses the initial start and source of something.

be molded by

Implies external forces have influenced the final form.

FAQs

How can I use "take shape around" in a sentence?

You can use "take shape around" to describe how something develops or forms in relation to a central idea, theme, or object. For example, "The project began to "form around" the initial concept."

What are some alternatives to "take shape around"?

You can use alternatives such as ""form around"", "develop around", or "center on" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "take shape around" or "take form around"?

Both "take shape around" and "take form around" are acceptable, but "take shape around" is more common and generally preferred in contemporary usage. The choice often depends on stylistic preference.

How does "take shape around" differ from "revolve around"?

"Take shape around" suggests a process of development or formation, while "revolve around" implies that something is central and other elements are oriented towards it. The nuance lies in whether the focus is on the process of forming versus the state of being centered.