shake it up

B1 informal inseparable transitive

In simple words

To change things up and make them more exciting and different.

Literal meaning: To physically shake something vigorously — like shaking a snow globe or a bottle of juice to mix the contents.

Meanings

1 B1 idiomatic informal

common

To introduce change, energy, or variety into a routine, situation, or performance.

"The new coach told the team they needed to shake it up and try some completely different tactics."

"Shake It Up"
— The Cars, song title from the album 'Shake It Up', 1981.

Grammar: inseparable

2 A2 neutral

common

To physically shake a container vigorously in order to mix its contents.

"Shake it up well before pouring — the dressing separates if it sits too long."

Grammar: inseparable

Usage notes

Often used as an enthusiastic command or encouragement. Popular in motivational, pop culture, and sports contexts. Also literally means to shake a container (e.g. a cocktail shaker). The song 'Shake It Up' by The Cars (1981) and other pop culture uses have made this phrase widely recognised.

Commonly used with

routine things scene performance style formula

Forms

Base

shake it up

I/you/we/they

3rd person

shakes it up

he/she/it

Past simple

shook it up

yesterday

Past participle

shaken it up

have + pp

-ing form

shaking it up

continuous

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