Differences between clean up after and pick up after
Clean up after means to tidy or remove dirt, mess, or debris left behind by someone or something. Pick up after means to collect and put away objects or items that have been left out of place.
Meanings and Definitions: clean up after vs pick up after
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Clean up after
- 1To tidy or clean a space after someone or something.
Of course the dog owner cleans up after his dirty dog as happily and naturally as the parent of a baby changes a nappy.
Pick up after
- 1Tidy a mess someone else has made.
I always have to PICK UP AFTER him because he leaves things all over the office.
Usage Examples: clean up after, pick up after in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
clean up after
Example
I always clean up after my dog when we go for a walk.
Example
She cleans up after her children every day.
pick up after
Example
I always pick up after my kids when they leave their toys on the floor.
Example
She picks up after her roommate who never cleans up his dishes.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Clean up after
tidy up
To organize or put things in order, especially in a room or space.
Example
She spent the morning tidying up her apartment before her guests arrived.
sweep up
To clean or remove dirt or debris from a floor or surface using a broom or vacuum.
Example
He had to sweep up the broken glass after the vase fell off the table.
wash up
To clean dishes, utensils, or other items using soap and water.
Example
After dinner, they all helped to wash up and put away the dishes.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Pick up after
neaten up
To make something look tidy or orderly, especially by putting things in their proper place.
Example
She asked her son to neaten up his room before his friends came over to play.
To arrange or sort things in a systematic or logical way.
Example
She spent the weekend organizing her closet and donating clothes she no longer wore.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “pick”
Phrasal Verbs with “up after”
Differences in clean up after vs pick up after: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: clean up after or pick up after?
Both clean up after and pick up after are commonly used in everyday conversation, but pick up after is slightly more common. This is because it's a more general phrase that can be used in various contexts, such as cleaning up toys or clothes. Clean up after is more specific and often used in situations where there is a mess or dirt to be cleaned up.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of clean up after and pick up after
Both phrases are informal and suitable for casual conversations. However, clean up after may be slightly more formal than pick up after because it's often used in professional settings like cleaning services or hospitality industries.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of clean up after and pick up after
The tone of clean up after and pick up after can differ based on context. Clean up after often carries a sense of responsibility or obligation, especially when referring to cleaning up after others. Pick up after typically has a more neutral or practical tone, especially when referring to tidying up one's own belongings.
clean up after & pick up after: Synonyms and Antonyms
Clean up after
Antonyms
