Translation guide
The English phrase "shake down" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses: extorting money, testing something new, searching thoroughly, and causing something to fall by shaking.
To get money from someone using threats or force.
The most common verb for extorting money. It implies threatening to reveal secrets or cause harm unless paid.
He shook down his boss for money.
A more formal term for extortion or blackmail, often used in legal contexts.
He was arrested on suspicion of extortion.
Specifically refers to collecting protection money, often by yakuza or gangs.
That shop was being shaken down for protection money.
To test a new system, vehicle, or equipment to make sure it works properly.
To search a person or place very carefully, often for hidden items.
Means 'to investigate thoroughly', suitable for searching a place or person.
The police shook down the apartment.
Formal term for a search, often used by authorities.
Customs shook down the ship.
Means 'to search every nook and cranny', emphasizing thoroughness.
I shook down the room.
To make something fall or settle by shaking it.
Do not translate 'shake down' literally as 振り下ろす or 揺すり倒す. These are not natural Japanese for any of the meanings above.
I'm shaking down my new car.
I shook down the tablecloth to get the crumbs off.