Synonyms of shape (up)

shape (up) 1 of 2

verb (1)

as in to form

to take on a definite form

this group of summer interns is shaping up to be one of the best we've ever hired

Synonyms & Similar Words

• form
• crystallize
• connect
• solidify
• link (up)
• crystalize
• join
• jell
• combine
• cohere
• fuse
• couple
• coalesce
• unite
• unify
• associate
• conjugate
• conjoin

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• break down
• decay
• decompose
• disintegrate

shape up

2 of 2

verb (2)

as in to improve

to change one's behavior or character for the better

told his son that if he didn't shape up, he'd be grounded for a month

Synonyms & Similar Words

• improve
• straighten (up or out)
• behave
• amend
• better
• clean up one's act
• reform
• regenerate
• mend

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• regress
• backslide

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of shape (up)

Verb

After a 2-2 draw on Thursday in Rotterdam, this one is shaping up to be an absolute thriller. —Kevin Sabet, Newsweek, 23 Mar. 2025

In a year that’s already shaping up to be a headache for Tesla (TSLA-1.65%), its biggest rival abroad — and one that’s growing its international footprint — now claims to have developed a superior charging system. —William Gavin, Quartz, 18 Mar. 2025

This film is shaping up to be one of the biggest productions in Philippine cinema, with one of the largest casts ever assembled. —Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 17 Mar. 2025

This year is already shaping up to be a productivity all-timer. —Matt Zoller Seitz, Vulture, 17 Mar. 2025