Lesson

Describing Objects - Shape & Dimensions

Shape and size vocabulary

≈ 15 min 8 block(s)

Text

Describing Objects — Shape & Dimensions

This lesson focuses on the vocabulary used to describe the shape and dimensions of objects. You will learn common shape names, dimension terms, how to state measurements, and useful collocations for professional contexts (product descriptions, packaging, blueprints).

  • Common shape words (e.g. rectangular, spherical, cylindrical)
  • Dimension terms and measurement phrases (length, width, height, diameter, depth)
  • How to express measurements (using 'by', units, and order)
  • Practical phrases for business descriptions and specifications

Table

Common Shapes & Dimension Terms

Term Part of speech Definition Example
rectangular / rectangle adjective / noun Having the shape of a rectangle (four sides, opposite sides equal) The shipment contains a rectangular box measuring 40 cm by 30 cm.
cylindrical / cylinder adjective / noun Shaped like a tube or cylinder — round cross-section and straight sides The product comes in a cylindrical container with a 10 cm diameter.
spherical / sphere adjective / noun Shaped like a ball; perfectly round in three dimensions The prototype included a spherical sensor housing.
length / width / height / depth nouns Measurements that describe size in different directions Enter the length, width and height in the form.
diameter / radius / circumference nouns Terms used for circular measurements (diameter = across the circle) Specify the diameter of the bore to ensure compatibility.
thin / thick / narrow / wide adjectives Adjectives describing small or large dimension in one direction Use a thin panel for lighter weight; choose a wide shelf for more storage.

Tip

Key tips for describing shape & dimensions

Use clear, standard terms and give measurements in a consistent order. In business communication, be precise and include units.

  • Use adjectives for shape: a rectangular box, a cylindrical tube, a spherical cover.
  • Give measurements in the order length × width × height (L × W × H) or length by width by height in words.
  • Use 'diameter' for full width of a circle and 'radius' for half of that.
  • When possible, include units (cm, mm, in) and tolerances for technical specs.

Write measurements like '40 cm by 30 cm' or '40 × 30 cm' and use 'height' for vertical size.

Example

Examples in context

The package is rectangular and measures 40 cm by 30 cm.

Please confirm the height and depth of the shelf before ordering.

The new model features a cylindrical battery compartment with a 5 cm diameter.

Provide the length, width and height in the specification sheet.

Tip

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Learners often make predictable errors when describing shape and dimensions. Watch for these to make your descriptions precise.

  • Using the wrong preposition or connector: use 'by' for length × width (e.g., 40 cm by 30 cm), not 'x' in casual text without clarity.
  • Mixing up shape and size words: e.g., calling something 'tall' when you mean 'high' for objects vs buildings or people.
  • Forgetting units: writing '40' without 'cm' or 'in' can cause confusion in specifications.
  • Incorrect pluralization in measurements: use '10 cm' (no plural on the unit) and 'two 10 cm parts' when needed.
  • Confusing diameter and radius: diameter is the full width across a circle, radius is half of that.

Be consistent with units and order (L × W × H). In technical contexts, precise language matters.

Quiz

Choose the most natural description for a long, narrow box:

Hint: Focus on using two adjectives in their adjective form; avoid noun or adverb forms.

Quiz

Complete: The table measures _____.

Hint: Use the 'length by width' format and include units (cm, in).

Quiz

Which term best describes a perfectly round three-dimensional object?

Hint: Think about a ball or globe when you hear the word.

Key Points

Vocabulary

rectangular

adjective CEFR B1 //rɛkˈtæŋɡjələr//

Having the shape of a rectangle; longer in one direction with four sides and right angles.

The company ships the product in a rectangular box.

Vocabulary

diameter

noun CEFR B2 //ˈdaɪ.ə.mɪ.tər//

The length of a straight line passing through the center of a circle from one side to the other.

The pipe has a diameter of 50 mm.

Vocabulary

length

noun CEFR A2 //lɛŋkθ/ /lɛŋθ//

The measurement of something from end to end; how long something is.

Record the length of the table in centimeters.

Vocabulary

width

noun CEFR A2 //wɪdθ//

The measurement or extent of something from side to side; how wide something is.

The width of the monitor is 60 cm.

Vocabulary

height

noun CEFR A2 //haɪt//

The measurement from base to top; how tall or high something is.

Please provide the height of the cabinet.

Vocabulary

cylindrical

adjective CEFR B2 //sɪˈlɪn.drɪ.kəl//

Having the shape of a cylinder; round with straight, parallel sides.

The product is stored in a cylindrical container for easy stacking.

Vocabulary

depth

noun CEFR B1 //dɛpθ//

The measurement from the top to the bottom of an object; how deep something is.

Check the depth of the drawer to ensure it fits the files.

GrammarPoint

dimensions

noun CEFR B1 //dɪˈmɛnʃənz//

Measurements that describe the size of an object (length, width, height, depth).

Please include the product dimensions in the online listing.