Phrasal verbs "shake out" vs "shake up"

Differences between shake out and shake up

Shake out means to remove dirt or dust from something by shaking it, while shake up means to cause a big change or disruption in something.

Meanings and Definitions: shake out vs shake up

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Shake out

  • 1Shake clothes, cloths, etc to remove dirt or creases.

    He took the tablecloth outside and SHOOK it OUT after dinner.

Shake up

  • 1Upset or shock.

    The news of her death really SHOOK me UP.

  • 2Make major changes to improve or save a company, organisation, etc.

    The management are SHAKING things UP and getting rid of a lot of workers.

  • 3Mix things in a container by shaking hard.

    Pour the ingredients into a container and SHAKE them UP.

Usage Examples: shake out, shake up in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

shake out

Example

She shakes out her jacket before putting it on.

Example

He shakes out the rug every week to remove dust.

shake up

Example

The new CEO plans to shake up the company to increase profits.

Example

She shakes up her morning routine to stay motivated.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Shake out

To remove dust or dirt from something by shaking or wiping it.

Example

She dusted off the old photo album and reminisced about her childhood memories.

To purify or remove impurities from something.

Example

She decided to cleanse her body by drinking only water and eating fruits for a week.

To remove dirt or debris from something by brushing or wiping it.

Example

He brushed off his jacket after sitting on the park bench.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Shake up

To completely change or disrupt something.

Example

The new CEO decided to turn the company upside down by implementing radical changes in its structure and policies.

To cause trouble or disruption in a stable situation.

Example

He didn't want to rock the boat by speaking up against his boss's unethical behavior.

stir things up

To cause excitement or controversy by making changes or taking action.

Example

The activist group decided to stir things up by organizing a protest against the government's decision.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “shake”

Phrasal Verbs with “out”

Phrasal Verbs with “up”

Differences in shake out vs shake up: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: shake out or shake up?

In daily conversation, shake up is more common than shake out. This is because shake up is used for more impactful events such as changes in a company or personal life. Shake out is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about cleaning something. So, while both phrases are used, shake up is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of shake out and shake up

Shake out and shake up are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of shake out and shake up

The tone of shake out and shake up can differ based on context. Shake out often carries a practical and casual tone when related to cleaning or removing dirt, while shake up typically has a more serious and impactful tone, especially when referring to causing change or disruption.

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