kind of shake

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "kind of shake" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a type or manner of shaking, often in a casual or informal context. Example: "After the earthquake, there was a kind of shake that rattled the windows and set the dogs barking."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

You kind of shake it up and we start all over again".

The New York Times

You can kind of shake it up and restart all over again".

The New York Times

"People are ready for our governmental establishment to kind of shake it up".

The New York Times

You can kind of shake it up, and we start all over again".

The Guardian - Opinion

"You kind of shake your head and ask, who did we offend?" center Steve McKinney said.

The New York Times

"At about 3 A.M., I'm layin' in bed, and I start to feel it kind of shake," he said.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

But Marvel has handled this kind of shake-up very well in the past.

The New York Times

"We just need some kind of shake-up, a kind of boost.

The New York Times - Sports

For their peers the pairing — inevitably nicknamed LouTallica — makes sense as both a sonic match and the kind of shake-up that mature artists need now and then to keep things fresh.

The New York Times - Arts

Every year sees some kind of shake-up on The Voice judging panel, but there hasn't been so much excitement about the change of coaches since Kylie Minogue minxed across the stage for the first time.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"I think everybody's kind of shaken.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "kind of shake" when you want to describe a mild or uncertain shaking motion, but be mindful of the context. In formal writing, consider more precise alternatives like "slight tremor" or "gentle vibration".

Common error

Avoid using "kind of shake" in formal documents, academic papers, or professional reports. It can sound too casual. Opt for more precise and professional alternatives to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "kind of shake" functions primarily as a modifier, often describing the manner or intensity of a physical tremor or a feeling of uncertainty. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. Examples from Ludwig show it describing both physical sensations and emotional states.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "kind of shake" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase, though Ludwig AI suggests it's best suited for neutral to informal contexts. Its primary function is to describe a moderate degree of physical tremor or a feeling of uncertainty. While commonly found in news and media, it's advisable to use more formal alternatives like "slight tremor" or "gentle vibration" in academic or professional settings. Remember to use this phrase when precision isn't paramount and a touch of casualness is acceptable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sort of tremble

Replaces "shake" with a more delicate vibration, emphasizing the gentleness of the movement.

slight tremor

Indicates a minor and often barely perceptible shaking motion.

mild vibration

Highlights the oscillating characteristic of the shake, focusing on its intensity.

gentle quiver

Suggests a soft and delicate shake, implying a subtle lack of stability.

soft tremble

Similar to "sort of tremble", but emphasizes the softness of the shaking.

a touch of agitation

Emphasizes the internal state causing the shaking, rather than the physical action itself.

hint of a shake

Highlights the subtlety and minimal nature of the shaking action.

somewhat unsteady

Shifts focus to the state of being unstable, with shaking as a potential symptom.

slightly unstable

Very similar to "somewhat unsteady", but with a slightly different emphasis.

a bit wobbly

Emphasizes the lack of balance and the resulting shaking motion.

FAQs

How can I use "kind of shake" in a sentence?

You can use "kind of shake" to describe a mild physical tremor or to express a feeling of uncertainty. For example: "I felt a "kind of shake" when the truck passed by" or "I had a "kind of shake" about accepting the job offer".

What are some alternatives to "kind of shake"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "slight tremor", "gentle vibration", or "mild quiver" to describe a physical shake. To express uncertainty, try "a bit hesitant" or "somewhat unsure".

Is it appropriate to use "kind of shake" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "kind of shake" is generally considered informal. For formal writing, it's best to opt for more precise and professional vocabulary like "slight tremor" or "gentle vibration" if describing a physical shake, or alternatives like "somewhat hesitant" or "slightly uncertain" to express doubt.

What's the difference between "kind of shake" and "sort of shake"?

"Kind of shake" and "sort of shake" are nearly synonymous and can often be used interchangeably. Both phrases indicate a moderate degree of shaking or uncertainty. The choice often depends on personal preference and the overall tone of the writing.