shake hands
Definition
Verb: * To perform the act of taking someone's hand in one's own and moving it up and down briefly, typically as a formal or friendly gesture of greeting, agreement, farewell, or congratulation.
Usage
This verb describes a specific, customary physical action used in social and professional interactions. It is often used in the reciprocal form "shake hands with someone." * It is a standard way to greet someone formally or to conclude a business agreement. * It can express congratulations, reconciliation, or farewell. * The action is typically brief and involves a firm but not forceful grip.
Examples
- The two leaders shook hands after signing the treaty.
- It's polite to shake hands when you are introduced to someone new.
- They shook hands to show there were no hard feelings after the argument.
- The competitors shook hands before the match began.
Advanced Usage
- To shake on it: An informal idiom meaning to confirm an agreement or promise by shaking hands.
- You promise to help me move? Let's shake on it.
- Used in the passive voice to describe a customary practice.
- In many cultures, a deal is not considered final until hands are shaken.
Variants and Related Words
- Handshake (n): The act or an instance of shaking hands.
- He has a very firm handshake.
- Handshaking (n): The process or custom of shaking hands; also used in computing for establishing communication.
Synonyms
- Clasp hands: Slightly more formal or literary.
- Exchange handshakes: Emphasizes the reciprocal nature.
Related Phrases
- Shake someone's hand: A less common but grammatically correct alternative to "shake hands with someone."
- I went up to the speaker to shake his hand.
Idioms
- Shake hands on something: To confirm an agreement by shaking hands.
- They shook hands on the deal right then and there.
Verb
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take someone's hands and shake them as a gesture of greeting or congratulation
