these shapes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "these shapes" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to specific shapes that have been previously mentioned or are visible in a context. Example: "In the design, these shapes create a harmonious balance that draws the viewer's attention."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

These shapes!

The New York Times

"All these shapes of ballerinas," he said.

The New Yorker

These shapes and experiences are new.

The New York Times - Arts

With these shapes came the sound of my blood...

The New York Times - Books

These shapes that the mouth makes are known as visemes.

The Guardian - Business

1. Download these shapes and print out onto paper.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"These shapes are rooted in our unconscious," he says.

The New York Times

"Through photography, we try to arrange these shapes and render them comparable.

The Guardian - Arts

Who, wonders Shelley, were all these animals "before they were changed into these shapes"?

The Guardian

I loved the dead ones just as much – it would be hard to invent these shapes.

The Guardian - Music

Since September 11 , 2001 all these shapes have scattered more than fish.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "these shapes", ensure the shapes have been previously defined or are visually apparent to the reader to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "these shapes" without a clear antecedent or visual reference, as this can confuse the reader. Always ensure the context makes it clear which shapes are being referred to.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "these shapes" functions as a noun phrase, where "these" acts as a demonstrative determiner specifying particular shapes. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Wiki

33%

Science

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "these shapes" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It serves to denote particular forms in a visual or conceptual context. Predominantly found in news, media, and science-related domains, "these shapes" maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse writing environments. To ensure clarity, always reference the specific shapes you are referring to. Consider alternatives such as "these forms" or "these figures" to vary your phrasing. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of "these shapes", ensuring its accurate and effective use in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

these forms

Emphasizes the external appearance or configuration of something.

these figures

More suitable when referring to geometric or human-like forms.

these outlines

Focuses on the boundary or contour of the shapes.

these configurations

Highlights the arrangement and structure of the shapes.

these patterns

Suitable when the shapes form a recurring design.

these designs

Used when the shapes are part of a deliberate arrangement for aesthetic or functional purposes.

these contours

Refers specifically to the outline or edge of the shapes, often implying curvature.

these silhouettes

Emphasizes the dark outline of the shapes against a light background.

these structures

Highlights the way the shapes are built or organized.

these arrangements

Focuses on how shapes are positioned or organized in relation to each other.

FAQs

How can I use "these shapes" in a sentence?

"These shapes" is used to refer to specific shapes that have already been mentioned or are evident in the current context. For example, "The artist used vibrant colors to highlight these shapes."

What can I say instead of "these shapes"?

You can use alternatives like "these forms", "these figures", or "these patterns" depending on the specific context and intended meaning.

Is it correct to say "those shapes" instead of "these shapes"?

Yes, "those shapes" is correct. The choice between "these" and "those" depends on proximity. "These" refers to shapes that are closer or more immediately relevant, while "those" refers to shapes that are farther away or less immediately relevant.

What is the difference between "these shapes" and "the shapes"?

"These shapes" refers to a specific group of shapes that are already known or have been identified. "The shapes" can refer to a general category or a specific group of shapes depending on the context, but it lacks the demonstrative emphasis of "these".