What are the definitions of “pick out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 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.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “pick out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb pick out is to choose something from a group or a selection. It can be used when selecting clothes, food, or any other items from a variety of options.
What are the different verb forms of “pick out”?
| Root Verb | pick out |
| Third Person Singular Present | picks out |
| Present Participle | picking out |
| Simple Past | picked out |
| Past Participle | picked out |
Example
She picked out a beautiful dress for the party.
Example
He picks out the best fruits at the market.
Example
They are picking out the perfect gift for their friend.
Example
Yesterday, I picked out a new book to read.
Example
The cake she picked out was delicious.
What kind of phrasal verb is “pick out”?
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 out” 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 out a new pair of shoes.
Example
He picked the best option out from the list.
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 out” 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 out a new pair of shoes.
Example
He picked the best option out from the list.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “pick out”?
Good things to know
Does “pick out” have an informal or formal tone?
Pick out is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can also be used in more formal settings, depending on the specific context.
