shake hands

Friendly

Explanation of "Shake Hands"

Definition:
"Shake hands" is a verb phrase that means to take someone’s hand and move it up and down in a friendly way. This is often done as a greeting, a way to show congratulations, or to agree on something.

Advanced Usage:

In some cultures, shaking hands is an important part of social etiquette. In other cultures, it may not be as common, or people might use different gestures instead. Always be aware of cultural differences regarding greetings.

Word Variants:

• Shook hands (past tense): "Yesterday, I shook hands with my interviewers."
• Shaking hands (present participle): "They are shaking hands after the game."

Different Meanings:

While "shake hands" primarily refers to the physical gesture, it can also symbolize agreement or a deal being made. For instance, if two people agree on a contract, they might shake hands to show they have come to an understanding.

Synonyms:

• Greet
• Salute
• Congratulate (in context)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• "Shake on it": This means to agree to something by shaking hands. For example, "We discussed the terms and then shook on it to confirm our agreement."

Summary:

"Shake hands" is a friendly and respectful way to greet someone or show agreement.

Academic

Verb

1. take someone's hands and shake them as a gesture of greeting or congratulation