What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
shake
Example
She shook her head to indicate disagreement. [shake: verb]
Example
The bartender shook the cocktail shaker to mix the drink. [shook: past tense]
Example
The ground began to shake as the earthquake hit. [shake: verb]
tremble
Example
She trembled with fear at the sight of the spider. [trembled: past tense]
Example
The leaves on the tree trembled in the wind. [trembled: verb]
Example
His voice trembled as he spoke about his loss. [trembled: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shake is more commonly used than tremble in everyday language. Shake has a wider range of contexts and can be used to describe various types of movement, while tremble is more specific and often used to describe physical or emotional reactions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between shake and tremble?
Both shake and tremble can be used in formal or informal contexts, but tremble may be considered more formal due to its association with emotions like fear or anxiety.
