Differences between pick on and pick up on
Pick on means to repeatedly criticize or tease someone, often unfairly or unkindly. Pick up on means to notice or become aware of something, often subtle or unspoken.
Meanings and Definitions: pick on vs pick up on
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Pick on
- 1Bother, annoy, criticize or make fun of someone.
My friends always PICK ON me because I don't sing well.
Pick up on
- 1Correct someone when they say something wrong.
My teacher PICKS UP ON any mistake I make and corrects me.
- 2Notice something that most people don't.
He's very quick to PICK UP ON new trends.
- 3React to something.
The government has PICKED UP ON the reports in the media.
- 4Comment on something said earlier in a conversation.
I'd like to PICK UP ON the point that Jill made.
Usage Examples: pick on, pick up on in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
pick on
Example
My classmates always pick on the new student.
Example
He picks on his younger brother all the time.
pick up on
Example
She always picks up on the latest fashion trends.
Example
He picks up on small details that others might miss.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Pick on
bully
To intimidate or harm someone, often repeatedly and unfairly.
Example
He was always bullied by his older brother when they were growing up.
tease
To make fun of someone playfully or mockingly.
Example
She would always tease her friend about her love for cheesy romantic comedies.
harass
To persistently bother or annoy someone, often with malicious intent.
Example
The boss was accused of harassing his employees by making inappropriate comments and gestures.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Pick up on
To perceive or become aware of something, often through intuition or observation.
Example
I could sense that something was bothering him, even though he didn't say anything.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “pick”
Phrasal Verbs with “up on”
Differences in pick on vs pick up on: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: pick on or pick up on?
In daily conversation, people use pick up on more often than pick on. This is because pick up on is used for a variety of situations, such as noticing someone's mood or understanding a hint. Pick on is less common and usually used in negative situations, such as bullying or teasing.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of pick on and pick up on
Pick on and pick up on are both informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. However, pick up on can also be used in more formal settings like business or academic contexts.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of pick on and pick up on
The tone of pick on and pick up on can differ based on context. Pick on often carries a negative or hostile tone, while pick up on typically has a curious or observant tone.
