Differences between move down and shake down
Move down means to go or move to a lower position or level, while shake down means to search thoroughly for something, especially illegal or hidden items.
Meanings and Definitions: move down vs shake down
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Move down
- 1Move a student to a lower level.
He was finding the course too difficult so they MOVED him DOWN.
Shake down
- 1Search.
The police SHOOK the house DOWN looking for drugs.
- 2Extort or cheat money from someone.
He SHOOK the guy DOWN with some story about needing the money for an operation.
Usage Examples: move down, shake down in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
move down
Example
The teacher decided to move the student down to a lower level.
Example
She moves down students who are struggling with the material.
shake down
Example
The police often shake down suspect houses for illegal substances.
Example
He usually shakes down businesses for protection money.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Move down
To move or go down from a higher position or level.
Example
The hikers had to descend carefully down the rocky slope.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Shake down
To examine or look through something carefully and completely.
Example
The customs officers searched thoroughly through the passenger's luggage for any contraband items.
To pat down or search someone's body for concealed weapons or illegal items.
Example
The security guard frisked the suspect before allowing him into the building.
To conduct a sudden and forceful search or attack on a place or person.
Example
The police raided the drug den and arrested several suspects.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “move”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
Differences in move down vs shake down: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: move down or shake down?
In daily conversation, people use move down more often than shake down. This is because move down is used for more common situations such as moving down a staircase or shifting to a lower seat. Shake down is not used as much in everyday conversation and is more specific to certain contexts like law enforcement or security.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of move down and shake down
Move down and shake down are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, shake down can also be used in more formal settings like legal or security contexts.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of move down and shake down
The tone of move down and shake down can differ based on context. Move down typically has a neutral or practical tone, while shake down can have a more serious or intense tone, especially when referring to law enforcement or security searches.
