Secouer vs. agiter
In the French language, 'secouer' and 'agiter' both translate to the English word 'to shake', but they are used in different contexts.
Secouer
'Secouer' generally means to shake something vigorously or with force, often suggesting more intense movement than 'agiter'.
Il a secoué la bouteille de jus avant de l'ouvrir.
(He shook the juice bottle before opening it.)
Le vent secouait les arbres violemment.
(The wind was shaking the trees violently.)
La secousse a secoué tout le bâtiment.
(The jolt shook the entire building.)
Agiter
'Agiter' tends to imply a gentler or more controlled form of shaking, often as a sign or gesture, or when stirring something.
Elle agitait sa main pour dire au revoir.
(She was waving her hand to say goodbye.)
Il a agité le drapeau en signe de victoire.
(He waved the flag as a sign of victory.)
Agitez bien la peinture avant de l'utiliser.
(Stir the paint well before using it.)
Summary
'Secouer' is used for more forceful shaking movements, often associated with physical vigor, while 'agiter' describes a gentler or more symbolic type of motion.