Phrasal verb
pick out
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
To pick out something means to choose it from a group, often because it stands out or you prefer it.
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.