Differences between pick out and pick up
Pick out means to choose or select something from a group of things, while pick up means to lift something up or to learn something new.
Meanings and Definitions: pick out vs pick up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
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: pick out, pick up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
pick out
Example
She picked out a beautiful dress for the party.
Example
He picks out the best fruits at the market.
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 Pick out
To choose or pick something from a group of things based on specific criteria.
Example
She had to select the best candidate for the job from a pool of qualified applicants.
To notice or identify someone or something in a particular place or situation.
Example
She was able to spot her friend in the crowd of people at the concert.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Pick up
To raise or move something to a higher position.
Example
He had to lift the heavy box to put it on the shelf.
To gain or obtain knowledge, skills, or habits through practice or experience.
Example
She was able to acquire fluency in Spanish after studying it for a year.
To collect or accumulate information, ideas, or objects.
Example
He was able to gather enough evidence to prove his theory.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “pick”
Phrasal Verbs with “out”
Differences in pick out vs pick up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: pick out or pick up?
In daily conversation, people use pick up more often than pick out. This is because pick up has multiple meanings and can be used in various contexts such as picking up an object, picking up a new skill, or picking up someone from a location. Pick out is less common and is mainly used when we're talking about choosing something from a group of things.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of pick out and pick up
Pick out 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 pick out and pick up
The tone of pick out and pick up can differ based on context. Pick out often carries a decisive or thoughtful tone when related to choosing something, while pick up typically has a physical or educational tone, especially when referring to lifting objects or learning new skills.
