Help center

Phrasal verbs "cast off" vs "pick off"

Differences between cast off and pick off

Cast off means to let go of something or someone, while pick off means to remove something from a surface or to shoot individual targets one by one.

Meanings and Definitions: cast off vs pick off

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Cast off

  • 1Dispose, get rid of.

    They CAST OFF any semblance of politeness and attacked us viciously.

  • 2Untie a boat so it's free to sail.

    They CAST OFF and headed out to sea.

Pick off

  • 1Target individuals to change a group.

    There were many rebels against the policy, but the government PICKED OFF the leaders.

Usage Examples: cast off, pick off in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

cast off

Example

She decided to cast off her old clothes and buy new ones.

Example

He casts off his worries and enjoys the weekend.

pick off

Example

The sniper was able to pick off the enemy soldiers one by one.

Example

She picks off the best players from the opposing team.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Cast off

let go

To release or relinquish something or someone.

Example

It was hard for her to let go of her childhood home when her parents sold it.

throw away

To discard or dispose of something that is no longer needed or useful.

Example

He decided to throw away his old clothes to make room for new ones.

break up with

To end a romantic relationship with someone.

Example

She had to break up with her boyfriend because they had different life goals.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Pick off

pluck off

To remove something from a surface by pulling it off with fingers or a tool.

Example

She plucked off the petals of the flower one by one.

shoot down

To hit and bring down a target with a weapon, usually a gun.

Example

The hunter was able to shoot down a bird with his rifle.

remove individually

To take out or detach items one by one from a group or surface.

Example

She had to remove the staples individually from the stack of papers before shredding them.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “off”

Differences in cast off vs pick off: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: cast off or pick off?

In daily conversation, people use cast off more often than pick off. This is because cast off is used for more common situations such as letting go of a relationship or throwing away an object. Pick off is not used as much in everyday conversation. It's mainly used when we're talking about removing something from a surface or shooting targets. So, while both phrases are used, cast off is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of cast off and pick off

Cast off and pick off are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of cast off and pick off

The tone of cast off and pick off can differ based on context. Cast off often carries a sad or regretful tone when related to letting go of something or someone, while pick off typically has a practical and focused tone, especially when referring to removing objects or shooting targets.

cast off & pick off: Synonyms and Antonyms

Cast off

Antonyms

This content was generated with the assistance of AI technology based on RedKiwi's unique learning data. By utilizing automated AI content, we can quickly deliver a wide range of highly accurate content to users. Experience the benefits of AI by having your questions answered and receiving reliable information!