Differences between pick at and pick out
Pick at means to eat small amounts of food without really enjoying it or to criticize someone or something in a petty way. On the other hand, pick out means to choose or select something from a group of options.
Meanings and Definitions: pick at vs pick out
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Pick at
- 1Eat unwillingly.
I wasn't very hungry so I just PICKED AT my food.
- 2Criticise.
There were a few problems that could be PICKED AT, but it was generally good.
Pick out
- 1Choose.
She PICKED OUT the ones she wanted to take and left the rest.
- 2Identify from a picture.
The victim couldn't PICK OUT her attacker from the photos the police showed her.
Usage Examples: pick at, pick out in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
pick at
Example
She always picks at her food when she's not feeling well.
Example
He picks at his meal when he's not in the mood to eat.
pick out
Example
She picked out a beautiful dress for the party.
Example
He picks out the best fruits at the market.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Pick at
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Pick out
To carefully choose or pick something based on specific criteria or preferences.
Example
He spent hours selecting the right ingredients for his signature dish, which won him the cooking competition.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “pick”
Phrasal Verbs with “at”
Differences in pick at vs pick out: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: pick at or pick out?
In daily conversation, people use pick out more often than pick at. This is because pick out is used for a variety of situations such as selecting clothes, choosing a book, or picking a team. Pick at is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about eating habits or criticizing someone or something in a petty way. So, while both phrases are used, pick out is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of pick at and pick out
Pick at and pick out 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 pick at and pick out
The tone of pick at and pick out can differ based on context. Pick at often carries a negative or critical tone when related to eating habits or criticizing, while pick out typically has a positive and decisive tone, especially when referring to choosing something.
