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Phrasal verbs "kick off" vs "pick off"

Differences between kick off and pick off

Kick off means to start or begin something, especially an event or a game. On the other hand, pick off means to remove something from a group one by one, usually in a careful or precise manner.

Meanings and Definitions: kick off vs pick off

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Kick off

  • 1Start a game of football.

    The match KICKS OFF at three o'clock.

  • 2Die.

    He KICKED OFF last month when he had a massive heart attack.

  • 3When trouble starts.

    The fight KICKED OFF when he insulted the guy's girlfriend.

  • 4Argue, protest and refuse to co - operate.

    He started KICKING OFF big time when the police tried to arrest him.

Pick off

  • 1Target individuals to change a group.

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

Usage Examples: kick off, pick off in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

kick off

Example

The conference will kick off with a keynote speech.

Example

The football match kicks off at 3 pm.

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 Kick off

start off

To begin or initiate something.

Example

Let's start off the meeting with a quick introduction of everyone present.

get the ball rolling

To start or initiate a process or activity.

Example

We need to get the ball rolling on the project if we want to meet the deadline.

commence

To begin or start something formally or officially.

Example

The ceremony will commence with the national anthem and a speech by the guest of honor.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Pick off

pluck out

To remove something from a group or collection, usually in a careful or selective manner.

Example

She plucked out the ripest apples from the tree and put them in a basket.

single out

To choose or select someone or something from a group for special attention or treatment.

Example

The coach singled out the most talented players for extra training sessions.

weed out

To remove or eliminate unwanted or unnecessary items or people from a group or collection.

Example

The hiring manager needs to weed out unqualified candidates before scheduling interviews.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “kick”

Phrasal Verbs with “off”

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

Frequency in Daily Use: kick off or pick off?

In everyday conversation, kick off is more common than pick off. This is because kick off is used in a variety of contexts, such as sports, meetings, and parties. Pick off, on the other hand, is less commonly used and is mainly used in specific situations, such as picking off fruit from a tree or removing people from a group.

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

Kick off and pick off are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, pick off can also be used in more formal settings, such as in business or academic contexts, when referring to removing items from a list or group.

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

The tone of kick off and pick off can differ based on context. Kick off often carries an enthusiastic or energetic tone when related to starting an event or game, while pick off typically has a careful or precise tone, especially when referring to removing items one by one.

kick off & pick off: Synonyms and Antonyms

Kick off

Antonyms

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