# give one's head a shake

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/give-ones-head-a-shake
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To reassess the common sense of one's behaviour, ideas, etc.

## Examples

- You need to give your head a shake and stop acting like that.
- If you think you can finish this project in one hour, you should give your head a shake.
- Before making such a reckless investment, he really ought to give his head a shake and consider the long-term consequences.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.