Differences between pick through and pick up on

Pick through means to search or examine something carefully, while pick up on means to notice or become aware of something.

Meanings and Definitions: pick through vs pick up on

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Pick through

1Search something that is disordered for something.
The police have been PICKING THROUGH the wreckage for clues.

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 through, pick up on in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

pick through

Example

She picked through the pile of clothes to find her favorite shirt.

Example

He picks through the box of old photos to find a picture of his grandparents.

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 through

sort through

To examine or organize a collection of items or information to find what is useful or relevant.

Example

She had to sort through a pile of resumes to find the most qualified candidates for the job.

sift through

To examine or search through something carefully and systematically to find what is important or valuable.

Example

He had to sift through a lot of data to find the key insights for his research project.

go over with a fine-tooth comb

To examine or search through something very carefully and thoroughly.

Example

The lawyer had to go over the contract with a fine-tooth comb to make sure there were no hidden clauses or loopholes.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Pick up on

catch on to

To understand or realize something, especially something that is not obvious or explicit.

Example

It took her a while to catch on to the new software program, but once she did, she found it very useful.

detect

To notice or discover something, especially something that is not easily noticeable.

Example

The security guard was able to detect the intruder's presence by listening for unusual sounds.

pick out

To identify or choose something from a group of similar things.

Example

She was able to pick out her friend's voice from the noisy crowd at the concert.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “pick”

Phrasal Verbs with “through”

Phrasal Verbs with “up on”

Differences in pick through vs pick up on: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: pick through or pick up on?

In daily conversation, people use pick up on more often than pick through. This is because pick up on is used frequently in social interactions and conversations, while pick through is used less often and usually in specific contexts such as searching for something.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of pick through and pick up on

Pick through and pick up on 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 through and pick up on

The tone of pick through and pick up on can differ based on context. Pick through often carries a deliberate or careful tone when related to searching or examining something, while pick up on typically has a perceptive and observant tone, especially when referring to noticing subtle cues or details.

pick through & pick up on: Synonyms and Antonyms

Pick through

Synonyms

Antonyms

Pick up on

Synonyms

Antonyms