Shake hands Meaning in English

expression

US

ˈʃeɪk/ /ˈhændz/, /ˈhænz

SHAYK HANDZ, HANZ

UK

ʃˈeɪk/ /hˈændz

SHAYK HANDZ

Definition

To greet, say goodbye, or show agreement by clasping someone's hand and moving it up and down.

Usage & Nuances

Used in both formal and informal situations, though sometimes replaced by waves or hugs among friends. Common in introductions, agreements, or after making a deal ('shake hands on it'). Not typically used with close family in English-speaking cultures.

• Spanish: darse la mano
• Portuguese (BR): apertar as mãos
• Portuguese (PT): apertar as mãos
• Chinese (Simplified): 握手
• Chinese (Traditional): 握手
• Hindi: हाथ मिलाना
• Arabic: يصافح
• Bengali: হ্যান্ডশেক করা - করমর্দন করা
• Russian: пожимать руку
• Japanese: 握手する
• Vietnamese: bắt tay
• Korean: 악수하다
• Turkish: el sıkışmak
• Urdu: ہاتھ ملانا
• Indonesian: berjabat tangan

Example Sentences

We shake hands when we meet new people.

basic

It is polite to shake hands at the end of a business meeting.

basic

Children sometimes shake hands to say sorry.

basic

Let's shake hands on this deal and make it official.

natural

We smiled and shook hands before leaving the room.

natural

I tried to shake hands, but he just waved instead.

natural