A2verb1K

Pick

UK /["/pɪk/","/pɪks/","/pɪkt/","/ˈpɪkɪŋ/"]/US /["/pɪk/","/pɪks/","/pɪkt/","/ˈpɪkɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to choose somebody/something from a group of people or things

In simple words: To choose or select something.

Examples

  • I will pick an apple from the tree.
  • Can you pick a movie for us to watch tonight?
  • She used her fingers to pick the lock.
  • Let's pick some flowers for the table.
  • You need to pick a side in this debate.

Usage notes

Use 'pick' when choosing items, people, or options. It is generally neutral but can be informal in contexts like 'pick a movie'. Avoid using it in very formal situations.

Grammar pattern

pick + object

Memory hint

Remember 'pick' like picking a flower from a garden.

Collocations

  • at random
  • randomly
  • out
  • as
  • for
  • freshly picked

Synonyms

  • choose
  • select
  • determine
  • opt
  • decide

Antonyms

  • reject
  • discard
  • ignore

Common mistakes

  • 'Pick' is often confused with 'choose', but 'pick' implies a more casual selection.
  • Learners sometimes forget to include an object after 'pick'. For example, say 'pick a fruit', not just 'pick'.
  • Overuse 'pick' when 'select' is more appropriate in formal writing.