Differences between pick on and take on
Pick on means to repeatedly criticize, tease, or bully someone, while take on means to accept or undertake a task, responsibility, or challenge.
Meanings and Definitions: pick on vs take 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.
Take on
- 1Allow passengers on a ship or plane.
The plane stopped at Zurich to TAKE ON some passengers.
- 2Assume a responsibility.
She TOOK ON the task of indexing the book.
- 3Employ.
The council has had to TAKE ON twenty extra employees to handle their increased workload.
Usage Examples: pick on, take 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.
take on
Example
I am ready to take on this new project.
Example
She takes on extra work to help her team.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Pick on
bully
To intimidate, harass, or harm someone who is weaker or vulnerable.
Example
He was constantly bullied by his classmates for being different.
tease
To mock, joke, or make fun of someone in a playful or hurtful way.
Example
She would always tease her brother about his messy room.
To express disapproval or judgment about someone's behavior, actions, or ideas.
Example
The boss would constantly criticize her employees for small mistakes.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Take on
To commit to doing something challenging or important.
Example
She decided to undertake the project despite its complexity.
To accept or take responsibility for a task or duty.
Example
As the team leader, he had to shoulder the responsibility of meeting the project deadline.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “pick”
Phrasal Verbs with “take”
Differences in pick on vs take on: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: pick on or take on?
In daily conversation, take on is more common than pick on. This is because take on is used in various contexts such as work, sports, and personal life. On the other hand, pick on is used less frequently and usually in negative situations.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of pick on and take on
Take on is a neutral phrase that can be used in both formal and informal settings. Pick on, however, is an informal phrase that is not suitable for formal contexts.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of pick on and take on
The tone of pick on is negative and critical, while the tone of take on is positive and proactive.
