What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
shakeout
Example
The market experienced a shakeout as many small businesses closed down due to the pandemic. [shakeout: noun]
Example
The industry went through a shakeout as larger companies acquired smaller ones. [shakeout: noun]
Example
Before the game, the coach led the team in a shakeout to warm up their muscles. [shakeout: verb]
consolidation
Example
The company underwent a consolidation to streamline its operations and reduce costs. [consolidation: noun]
Example
After a period of shakeout, the industry entered a phase of consolidation as larger companies merged to gain market share. [consolidation: noun]
Example
The family consolidated their credit card debts into a single account to reduce interest rates. [consolidated: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Consolidation is more commonly used than shakeout in everyday language, as it has a wider range of applications. Shakeout is more specific and less common, often used in financial or business contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between shakeout and consolidation?
Both shakeout and consolidation can be used in formal or informal contexts, but consolidation is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of situations.