Shakedown

A Shakedown refers to a thorough investigation, often performed to extract information or money through intimidation or force. It can also refer to the act of testing or evaluating something, usually in a systematic manner, to ensure that it works properly or meets certain standards. The term is commonly used in both criminal contexts as well as in business or technical settings, describing practices that may be perceived as coercive or exploitative.

Shakedown meaning with examples

• The company faced a Shakedown from local authorities, who demanded a hefty bribe in exchange for overlooking regulatory violations. Despite the ethical implications, management had to weigh the risks of non-compliance against the cost of the payment.
• During the police investigation, the detectives implemented a Shakedown of known gang members, aiming to gather intel on their illegal activities. This aggressive approach led to several arrests and a significant disruption in the local drug trade.
• Before launching the new product, the engineers conducted a Shakedown test to ensure that all features were functioning correctly. This crucial phase identified several potential issues that needed resolution before the official release.
• In the corporate world, a Shakedown can take on a more subtle form, where unscrupulous negotiators might exploit vulnerabilities in contracts to secure unfair advantages during discussions, thus pressuring the other party to concede.