Shakedown: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in a professional or technical context to describe a test or trial phase where systems, processes, or equipment are put under stress to make sure they function correctly. It is often used in engineering, technology, or even in law enforcement to describe extortion. It can have a negative connotation.

• The engineers performed a shakedown of the new software to identify any bugs.
• The crew ran a shakedown cruise for the new ship before its official launch.
• The detective conducted a shakedown of the suspect's connections to the crime.

Widely used in performing arts—such as theater, dance, and music—to describe a practice where the participants go through the entire performance to prepare for the actual event. It usually involves running through the whole piece from start to finish.

• The actors held a final rehearsal before the opening night of the play.
• We spent three hours in rehearsal for the upcoming dance recital.

Commonly used in sports or artistic contexts to describe a period where individuals or teams practice their skills and strategies. This phrase is neutral and indicates a time for honing abilities.

• The basketball team has a practice session every morning to improve their performance.
• The musicians scheduled a practice session to prepare for their concert.

Often used in sports and performing arts contexts to describe a brief period of preparatory exercises or activities designed to physically and mentally prepare individuals for the main event. This is generally lighter and shorter than a full practice session or rehearsal.

• The athletes did a warm up before the competition to prevent injuries.
• The singer performed a warm-up to get her vocal cords ready for the concert.

This term is often used in informal situations to describe an illegal demand for money or valuables through threats or deception. It has a negative connotation.

• The corrupt officer was involved in a shakedown, demanding money from local businesses.
• After finding himself in the wrong neighborhood, he became the target of a shakedown.

Extortion is the act of obtaining something, especially money, through force or threats. This term is formal and used in both legal contexts and everyday language to describe serious criminal behavior.

• The gangster was arrested for extortion after threatening local shopkeepers.
• The company faced charges of extortion for pressuring their clients into paying inflated prices.

This word is used when someone threatens to reveal embarrassing or damaging information unless a demand, usually for money, is met. It carries a negative connotation and is commonly used in both legal and personal contexts.

• She was able to blackmail him into silence by threatening to expose his secrets.
• The politician fell victim to blackmail after someone discovered his scandalous past.

Coercion involves forcing someone to do something against their will through threats or intimidation. It is generally used in formal contexts and has a negative implication.

• The contract was signed under coercion, making it legally questionable.
• He used coercion to manipulate his employees into working extra hours without pay.