What are the definitions of “pick up on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 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.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “pick up on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb pick up on is to notice or become aware of something, especially something that is not obvious or easy to see. It can refer to recognizing subtle details, understanding hidden meanings, or identifying new trends.
What are the different verb forms of “pick up on”?
| Root Verb | pick up on |
| Third Person Singular Present | picks up on |
| Present Participle | picking up on |
| Simple Past | picked up on |
| Past Participle | picked up on |
Example
She always picks up on the latest fashion trends.
Example
He picks up on small details that others might miss.
Example
They are picking up on the changes in the market.
Example
Yesterday, she picked up on the hidden message in the letter.
Example
He had picked up on the fact that she was unhappy.
What kind of phrasal verb is “pick up on”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“pick up on” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
She picked up on the mistake in the report.
Example
He picked up on the new trend quickly.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“pick up on” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She picked up on the mistake in the report.
Example
He picked up on the new trend quickly.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “pick up on”?
Good things to know
Does “pick up on” have an informal or formal tone?
Pick up on is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.
