take shape

1. Also, shape up. Turn out, develop, acquire a distinctive form, as in Her reelection campaign is already taking shape, two years before the election, or Can you tell us how the book is shaping up? The first term dates from the mid-1700s and the variant, originally put as shape out, from about 1600.

Example Sentences

Nine months later, the unprecedented scope of that pledge – or threat – is fully taking shape.

From BBC

Political analysts cautioned that the race is sill wide open, with one expert declining to speculate during the “embryonic” stages as the field takes shape.

From Los Angeles Times

But current and former officials said the current financial woes of the city could not be placed solely on the legal claims, and that its dire financial situation could be seen taking shape years ago.

From Los Angeles Times

When the story of the 63-year-old's time in the boardroom is told and his legacy takes shape, it will be one of financial and structural success, but underachievement on it.

From BBC

The line between fandom and fermenting cultures blurs, and soon, it seems, a new kind of devotion might take shape: obsessive, meticulous, generous, communal.

From Salon

Related Words

• brew 
• come on 
• dominate 
• emerge 
• hover 
• mount 
• overshadow 
• portend 
• soar 
• stand out 
• threaten