Differences between look up and pick up
Look up means to search for information in a reference source or to admire something by looking up at it, while pick up means to lift something up from the ground or to learn something new.
Meanings and Definitions: look up vs pick up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Look up
- 1Consult a reference work ( dictionary, phonebook, etc. ) for a specific piece of information..
I didn't know the correct spelling so I had to LOOK it UP in the dictionary.
- 2Improve.
The economy is LOOKING UP.
- 3Find, trace an old friend.
I LOOKED him UP when I went back to Cambridge.
Pick up
- 1Improve.
Sales PICKED UP a bit during the Christmas period.
- 2Learn quickly.
She PICKED UP Spanish in six months.
- 3Collect.
While you're in town, can you PICK UP my trousers from the Dry Cleaner?
- 4Receive ( a broadcast ).
When we rent a holiday cottage in Cornwall, we can't PICK UP Channel 5.
- 5Collect ( a person ). This differs from the' collect a thing' meaning - as that means' collect and bring back' whereas this means either ( i )' collect and drop off on your way' or ( ii )' collect and bring to the same destination'..
i ) Can you PICK me UP and take me to The George when you go to the party? ii ) Can you PICK UP some friends of mine on your way to the party? They're going too.
Usage Examples: look up, pick up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
look up
Example
When I don't know a word, I look it up in the dictionary.
Example
She looks up new recipes online every week.
pick up
Example
I need to pick up my dry cleaning today.
Example
She picks up her kids from school every day.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Look up
To investigate or study a topic or subject in-depth to gather information or knowledge.
Example
She spent hours researching the best travel destinations before booking her trip.
To seek advice or information from a professional or expert in a specific field.
Example
He decided to consult with a financial advisor before making any investment decisions.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Pick up
lift up
To raise or elevate an object from a lower position to a higher one.
Example
She asked him to lift up the heavy box and move it to the other room.
To gain or obtain something, such as a skill, knowledge, or habit.
Example
He decided to acquire a new language by taking classes and practicing every day.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “look”
Phrasal Verbs with “pick”
Differences in look up vs pick up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: look up or pick up?
In daily conversation, people use pick up more often than look up. This is because pick up is used for more daily tasks and routines such as picking up objects or learning new skills. Look up is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about searching for information. So, while both phrases are used, pick up is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of look up and pick up
Look up and pick up 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 look up and pick up
The tone of look up and pick up can differ based on context. Look up often carries a curious or interested tone when related to searching for information or admiring something, while pick up typically has a practical and casual tone, especially when referring to lifting objects or learning new skills.
