Shape up or ship out

usgb
phrase

Improve your behavior or work performance, or leave the situation or job.

If you don't stop coming late to work, you'll need to shape up or ship out.
Visual representation of "shape up or ship out" - Improve your behavior or work performance, or leave the situation or job

Often appears as...

  • need to shape up or ship out
  • want to shape up or ship out

Usage tips

Informal, Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "shape up or ship out"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Workplace Warning

Used by management as a strong warning to improve or face consequences.

Illustration for Workplace Warning
The boss said I need to shape up or ship out, so I'm really focusing on my punctuality now.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not Literal

Usually not meant literally; more about improvement rather than actual leaving.

Illustration for Not Literal
My trainer told me to shape up or ship out, but she just wants me to work harder at the gym.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Ultimatum Context

Indicates a last chance; there may not be further warnings given.

Illustration for Ultimatum Context
This is your last chance. You better shape up or ship out!
Visual representation of the word "Shape up or ship out"

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