Irregular verbs  Regular verbs

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shake, shakes, shaking, shaken, shook

Synonyms: tremble, quiver, vibrate, shudder, jolt

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Antonyms: steady, still, stabilize, secure, hold firm

The Verb Shake – Definition, Usage, and Clarification


The verb shake is a common irregular verb that means to move back and forth or up and down in short, quick, and often violent movements.


VERB FORMS


■ Base Form: shake
■ Past Simple: shook
■ Past Participle: shaken
■ Present Participle/Gerund: shaking


USAGE AND CONTEXT


'Shake' is used for literal physical movements as well as strong emotional reactions.


1. Physical Movement
This refers to the movement of an object or person.


■ Objects: 'Shake the bottle well before opening.'
■ Tremors: 'The ground shook during the earthquake.'


2. Body Movements (Involuntary or Gestures)
This describes both involuntary reactions and intentional gestures.


■ Emotion/Cold: 'He was shaking with fear.' / 'She was shaking from the cold.'
■ Gestures: 'They shook hands to finalize the agreement.' / 'She shook her head to say no.'


3. Emotional Impact (Figurative)
This refers to something that deeply disturbs or upsets someone.


■ Upset: 'The news of the accident has shaken the entire community.'
■ Confidence: 'The failure shook his confidence.'


ℹ IMPORTANT: PAST PARTICIPLE AND PHRASES


■ 'Shaken' as an Adjective: The past participle 'shaken' is very often used as an adjective to describe someone who is emotionally disturbed or shocked.
■ Example: 'The driver was badly shaken but unhurt after the crash.'


■ Phrasal Verbs:
■ Shake off: To get rid of something, like an illness or a bad feeling. ('I can't seem to shake off this cold.')
■ Shake up: To cause large changes in a system or organization. ('The new CEO is going to shake up the company.')