student asking question

Does "a good shake" refer to 'an shaking action for a one time'? If so, can I say "good shakes" to represent 'shacking several times'?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

"A good shake" in this case does mean a strong shaking motion. You don't necessarily need to think of it as one shake only, it may refer to more than one action. In this case, even if the action is repeated, you do not necessarily need to add "-s" to show that more than one shake was made. You can use "a good shake," or similarly, "a few good shakes" to express this action. These two expressions can sufficiently convey the same meaning. Ex: To mix the drink well, give it a good shake. Ex: To mix the drink well, give it a few good shakes.

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