What are the definitions of “shape up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Develop in a positive way.
Things are SHAPING UP at work everything's going well again.
- 2Improve to reach an acceptable standard.
If they don't start SHAPING UP, they're going to lose their jobs.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “shape up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb shape up is to improve or develop in a positive way. It can refer to a situation, a person, or a thing that is getting better or reaching an acceptable standard. For example, it can mean that a person is improving their behavior or that a project is progressing well.
What are the different verb forms of “shape up”?
| Root Verb | shape up |
| Third Person Singular Present | shapes up |
| Present Participle | shaping up |
| Simple Past | shaped up |
| Past Participle | shaped up |
Example
I hope things shape up soon, so we can finish the project on time.
Example
She always shapes up when the boss is around.
Example
The new employee is shaping up to be a valuable team member.
Example
After a rough start, the event shaped up to be a great success.
Example
The team shaped up and won the championship.
What kind of phrasal verb is “shape up”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“shape up” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
The weather finally shaped up for our picnic.
Example
He needs to shape up if he wants to keep his job.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“shape up” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The weather finally shaped up for our picnic.
Example
He needs to shape up if he wants to keep his job.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “shape up”?
Good things to know
Does “shape up” have an informal or formal tone?
Shape up is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in casual conversations or everyday speech. In more formal settings, it is better to use alternative phrases such as 'improve,' 'develop,' or 'progress.'
