shake off

USAGE SUMMARY

"shake off" is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase typically means to get rid of something, or to ignore or dismiss something. For example, "Jack decided to shake off the negative thoughts he had been having."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Mr Hiller's "Shake Off" is hard to shake off.

The Economist

She had a lot to shake off.

The New York Times

Will India ever shake off corruption?

The New York Times

"We shake off the corsets and diets".

The New York Times

Some stereotypes are hard to shake off.

Independent

Schumann could never quite shake off Beethoven.

The New York Times - Arts

Wade could shake off the cobwebs.

The New York Times - Sports

"I'm better able to shake off disappointment".

The New York Times - Sports

Let's shake off some of the gloom.

The New York Times

Remove and shake off excess flour mixture.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

There's even a bartenders' cocktail shake-off.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "shake off" to describe recovering from an illness, ensure the context clearly implies a temporary condition. For example: "I just can't shake off this cold".

Common error

Avoid using "shake off" interchangeably with verbs that imply a more permanent removal or resolution. "Shake off" suggests a temporary detachment, while verbs like "eliminate" or "eradicate" indicate complete removal.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "shake off" primarily functions as a transitive verb, requiring an object. It indicates the action of dislodging something, either physically (e.g., "shake off excess glitter") or metaphorically (e.g., "shake off disappointment"). Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and versatile usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "shake off" is a versatile phrasal verb used to describe the act of removing something unwanted, whether physically or metaphorically. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and commonly used. Its applications range from removing excess glitter to overcoming negative feelings. While the phrase is generally neutral in register, it's important to consider the context and choose more formal alternatives when appropriate. The phrase appears frequently in sources like The New York Times and The Guardian. Common alternatives include "get rid of", "dismiss", and "discard". By understanding its nuances, writers can effectively use "shake off" to convey a sense of detachment and renewal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

get rid of

Focuses on the act of discarding or eliminating something undesirable.

rid oneself of

A more formal way of saying 'get rid of'.

dismiss

Emphasizes a conscious rejection or disregard of something.

discard

Highlights the act of throwing something away or abandoning it.

detach oneself from

Stresses a deliberate action of separating oneself, often emotionally or psychologically.

free oneself from

Stresses the action of liberating oneself from a burden or restriction.

leave behind

Focuses on the act of abandoning something, either physically or metaphorically.

break away from

Implies a forceful separation or departure from something.

move past

Emphasizes the act of progressing beyond a difficulty or obstacle.

overcome

Implies a successful effort to conquer or surpass a challenge.

FAQs

How can I use "shake off" in a sentence?

"Shake off" can be used in various contexts, such as "He tried to shake off the feeling of unease" or "They need to shake off their recent losses and focus on the next game".

What are some synonyms for "shake off"?

Synonyms for "shake off" include "get rid of", "dismiss", and "discard". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "shake off" in formal writing?

Yes, "shake off" is generally acceptable in formal writing, especially when describing the act of dismissing something. However, consider more formal alternatives like "rid oneself of" for a more elevated tone.

What's the difference between "shake off" and "get over"?

"Shake off" typically implies a quicker or more superficial detachment, while "get over" suggests a more thorough emotional recovery or acceptance of a situation.