I'm unable to remember a word which relates to a fine and nice state. The word is like ?-shape
. Also, where and how can I use this word. Can I use it for both living and inanimate things.
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Are you thinking of "ship-shape"? It is usually used to describe inanimate things/places, but you might come from an encouraging doctor's visit and tell someone, "The doctor says everything is "ship-shape".– OldbagJun 7, 2015 at 14:41
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Yes, the word is right, can you elaborate more as an answer.– Sharad GautamJun 7, 2015 at 14:43
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@SharadGautam: you could try looking online yourself, you know. Googling just "shipshape" would work.– MarganaJun 7, 2015 at 15:02
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I couldn't remember the word.– Sharad GautamJun 7, 2015 at 15:15
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1Can you just tick the correct answer so the question can be wrapped-up?– FattieJun 7, 2015 at 16:24
1 Answer
"Ship-shape" - ([hyphen may be optional] Borrowed from nautical terminology) Because of the nature of travel on a moving surface (water) it is essential that equipment/cargo/personnel are well-maintained and in the right place at the right time. "Ship-shape" refers to the optimum state of affairs in this regard.
We also borrow the expressions:
"Squared-away" -'Putting things in their proper place' - literally or figuratively.(Setting the masts and yardarms at right-angles (squared) to the keel of the ship.)
"Batten down the hatches" - 'Prepare for a storm' - literally or figuratively. (Securing and covering points of egress in the hold to prevent water from entering.)
"Stowed-away/Stowaway/'Stow it'" - Gear, or equipment, put away in it's place/A living thing (accidentally or purposely) traveling in a place reserved for equipment or gear - or an unauthorized person on board/'Take that comment/opinion and keep it to yourself' - 'Shut-up.'