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shape up
/ʃeɪp ʌp/◆phrasal verb
to improve or correct behavior
The coach told the team to shape up or ship out.
The coach demanded that the team improve their performance or leave the team.
informal
To improve one's behavior, performance, or condition, often under pressure or threat of consequences.
After the warning, the employees had to shape up or face termination.
The employees were required to improve their work performance or risk losing their jobs.
The city needs to shape up its infrastructure to attract more tourists.
The city must improve its infrastructure to become more appealing to tourists.
Often used in contexts where improvement is necessary to avoid negative consequences.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Context Matters
This phrase is often used in situations where someone is being told to improve their behavior or performance.
Gold Rule
Formal vs. Informal
While 'shape up' is informal, similar phrases like 'improve your performance' are more formal.
Word Origin
From the verb 'shape' meaning to form or mold, combined with 'up' to indicate improvement.
Usage Notes
Commonly used in informal contexts, especially in workplaces or team settings where performance needs to be corrected.
Word Breakdown
shape
to form or mold
rootup
to improve or enhance
particleEnglish Dictionary