Language Research

shape · noun C or U

/ʃeɪp/Full view

Word family

Nouns: shape

Adjectives: -shaped, shapeless, shapely

Verbs: shape

shape

B1 the physical form of something made by the line around its outer edge

Dictionary examples:

a circular/rectangular shape

You can recognize trees by the shape of their leaves.

These old sweatpants are all stretched out of shape

These bricks are all different shapes.

Kim's birthday cake was in the shape of a train.

My bicycle wheel is bent out of shape.

This T-shirt has been washed so many times that it's lost its shape.

A triangle is a shape with three sides.

Learner example:

Well, it looks like yours, you know, the same size and shape. (Preliminary English Test; B1; Portuguese)

in good/bad, etc. shape

B2 in good/bad, etc. health or condition

Dictionary example:

She runs every day so she's in great shape.

Learner example:

I am of the opinion that if you are in good shape and the distance is not too much, you should leave the car at home and use the bike. (First Certificate in English; B2; German)

all shapes and sizes

C2 many different types of people or things

Dictionary example:

We saw people there of all shapes and sizes.

Learner example:

Personal challenges come in all shapes and sizes. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Dutch)

keep in shape

B2 to stay healthy and physically strong

Dictionary example:

It's important to keep in shape.

Learner example:

We want to keep in shape, and we are interested in a gym - do you have one or is there one close to there? (First Certificate in English; B2; Spanish)

out of shape

C2 not healthy or physically strong

Dictionary example:

Since I stopped riding my bike, I've gotten out of shape.

Learner example:

I no longer run and it has been more than a year since the last time I raced, [so] I am out of shape. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Spanish)

take shape

C2 to start to develop and become more clear or certain

Dictionary example:

The project is slowly beginning to take shape.

Learner example:

It is high time that their dreams took shape! (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Bulgarian)

shape · verb T

/ʃeɪp/

Word family

Nouns: shape

Adjectives: -shaped, shapeless, shapely

Verbs: shape

shape

C2 to influence the way that something develops

Dictionary examples:

Many people are not able to shape their own destinies.

We’re worried that they will try to shape the issue in a way that doesn't reflect what’s really going on.

He was very influential in shaping the government's economic policy/strategy.

Learner example:

All these experiences have shaped my personality and I am said to be sociable and understanding, especially when I am in contact with foreigners. (First Certificate in English; B2; French)