English phrasal verbs with pick
In today’s English lesson, we're delving into the world of phrasal verbs with a focus on the versatile word ‘pick.’ Phrasal verbs, a combination of a verb and one or more prepositions or adverbs, often carry meanings that can be challenging to decipher. So, let’s pick apart the intricacies of various phrasal verbs associated with ‘pick’ and pick up some new English vocabulary .
Pick Apart
To ‘pick apart’ means to closely examine or analyze something, often by dissecting its components. This phrasal verb is commonly used in academic and professional contexts.
Example: The scientist picked apart the research findings to identify any inconsistencies.
Pick Out
‘Pick out’ refers to the act of selecting or choosing something or someone from a group. This phrasal verb is commonly used in everyday situations.
Example: Can you help me pick out a suitable gift for my sister's birthday?
Pick Up
‘Pick up’ is a versatile phrasal verb with multiple meanings. It can mean to lift something off the ground, to acquire a new skill or habit, or to collect someone or something from a location.
Examples:
She picked up the book that had fallen off the shelf.
I want to pick up a few phrases in the local language during my travels.
Can you pick me up from the airport at 7 PM?
Pick On
To ‘pick on’ someone is to repeatedly criticize, tease, or bully them. This phrasal verb is often used in the context of interpersonal relationships.
Example: Stop picking on your younger brother; he's just learning.
Pick Over
‘Pick over’ means to carefully examine or go through a collection of items, often with the intention of selecting or removing specific ones.
Example: The antique collectors spent hours picking over the items at the flea market.
Pick At
To ‘pick at’ something is to eat it slowly or in small amounts, often without much enthusiasm. It can also mean to repeatedly touch or fidget with something.
Examples:
She picked at her salad, deep in thought.
Stop picking at the scab on your knee; it won't heal if you keep touching it.
Pick Through
‘Pick through’ involves sorting or selecting items from a group, often with the idea of choosing the best or most suitable ones.
Example: The archaeologists carefully picked through the layers of soil to uncover ancient artifacts.
Pick Up On
To ‘pick up on’ something means to notice or become aware of something, especially subtle cues or signals.
Example: Good detectives are skilled at picking up on the smallest details in a crime scene.
