takes shape

USAGE SUMMARY

"takes shape" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It means that something is beginning to form or develop. Here is an example sentence: "After months of planning, their project finally started to take shape as they secured funding and began construction."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Finally, it takes shape".

The New York Times

An idea takes shape.

The New York Times - Sports

A tent takes shape.

The Guardian - Travel

A narrative arc takes shape.

The New York Times

And dread too takes shape.

The Washington Post

Gradually, a familiar figure takes shape.

The Guardian - Arts

After that the house takes shape.

The Guardian - Books

But love takes shape before we know it.

The Guardian - Books

In this way, little by little, the object takes shape.

The Economist

And that is the portrait that takes shape.

The New York Times - Arts

These leaders' image takes shape above all in electronic media.

Princeton University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "takes shape" to describe the gradual development of abstract concepts like ideas, plans, or relationships.

Common error

While technically correct, avoid using "takes shape" excessively for describing the formation of physical objects. More specific verbs like "builds", "forms", or "assembles" might be more appropriate in such cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "takes shape" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as the predicate of a sentence. It describes the process of something transitioning from a vague or undefined state into a more concrete or organized form. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "takes shape" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to describe the gradual formation or development of something. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent use across diverse contexts, predominantly in news, academic, and scientific domains. While alternatives like "begins to form" or "starts to materialize" exist, "takes shape" offers a balanced and widely accepted option for conveying the idea of a process unfolding. Remember to tailor your choice to the specific nuance you wish to express and the nature of the subject matter.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

begins to form

Focuses on the initial stage of formation, highlighting the start of the process.

starts to materialize

Emphasizes the transition from an idea to a tangible reality.

develops

A more general term for growth and progression towards a final form.

comes into being

Highlights the creation or existence of something new.

assumes form

Focuses on the act of acquiring a specific shape or structure.

acquires definition

Implies that something is becoming more clear and distinct.

crystallizes

Suggests a more precise and well-defined final form.

unfolds

Implies a gradual revelation or development.

matures

Highlights the progression to a completed or perfected state.

progresses

Focuses on advancement and forward movement in development.

FAQs

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

You can use "takes shape" to describe the development of an idea, a plan, or a physical object. For example: "The project began to "takes shape" after the initial funding was secured."

What are some alternatives to "takes shape"?

Some alternatives include "begins to form", "starts to materialize", or simply "develops", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "is taking shape" instead of "takes shape"?

Yes, "is taking shape" is the present continuous tense of the phrase and is perfectly correct. It emphasizes that the process of forming is currently in progress, while ""takes shape"" is more general.

What's the difference between "takes shape" and "takes form"?

While similar, ""takes shape"" often implies a more complex or gradual development, whereas "takes form" can refer to a more immediate or defined formation.