ENGLISH
REFERENCE

shape up

idiom
Meaning

To improve; to correct one's bad habits or behavior.


Examples
SIMPLE

You need to shape up if you want to keep your job.

CONTEXTUAL

The coach told the team they must shape up their performance before the next big game.

COMPLEX

Unless the department decides to shape up its inefficient internal processes, the company will likely face significant financial losses by the end of the fiscal year.

Anchors to
Related idioms6entries
  1. 01

    bash into shape

    Of an item, to fix or build it; often in a rough and ready fashion.

  2. 02

    get bent out of shape

    To take offense; to become angry, agitated, or upset.

  3. 03

    in any way, shape, or form

    In any way at all; whatsoever.

  4. 04

    lick into shape

    To exert considerable effort to change (someone or something) into a desired state.

  5. 05

    shape up or ship out

    To either improve one's behavior or else be required to leave; to either improve one's performance in an activity or else withdraw from that activity completely.

  6. 06

    whip into shape

    To exert considerable effort to change something or someone into a desired state.

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