Phrasal verb
pick out
To pick out something means to choose it from a group, often because it stands out or you prefer it.
Meanings
to choose something from a group of options
to recognize or identify someone or something among others
to notice or distinguish a detail from a larger background or mixture
Definition
Pick out most commonly means to select one thing from several options. It can also mean to identify someone or something from a group, or to notice a particular detail. The meaning is usually clear from the context (shopping, choosing, or recognizing).
Examples
- I picked out a blue mug for my desk.
- She picked out her friend in the crowd right away.
- They picked out a quiet campsite near the lake.
- Can you pick out the main melody on the piano?
- He picked out a few key details in the painting.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse "pick out" (select/identify) with "pick up" (lift/collect/learn).
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.