knock/lick (something/someone) into shape

to improve the condition of something or the condition or behaviour of someone.

The prime minister's main aim is to knock the economy into shape.

Little Sean is a bit wild but the teachers'll soon lick him into shape when he starts school.

• could do with
• could do with one arm tied behind back
• could do with one arm tied behind their back
• could do with one hand tied behind back
• could do with one hand tied behind their back
• could do with something
• could hear a pin drop
• could in sleep
• could in their sleep
• couldn't [act/argue/fight] way out of a paper bag
• couldn't [act/argue/fight] your way out of a paper bag
• couldn't act way out of a paper bag
• couldn't act your way out of a paper bag
• couldn't argue way out of a paper bag
• couldn't argue your way out of a paper bag
• couldn't believe eyes
• couldn't believe your eyes
• couldn't care less
• couldn't fight way out of a paper bag
• couldn't fight your way out of a paper bag
• couldn't have asked for anything more
• couldn't have asked for more
• couldn't lie straight in bed
• couldn't organize a piss-up in a brewery
• couldn't ... way out of a paper bag