Language Research

pick · verb T

/pɪk/Full view

pick (CHOOSE)

B1 to choose something or someone

Dictionary examples:

Pick a card from the box to send to your sister.

She was picked for the Olympic team.

She was picked to play for the team.

Learner example:

[I]n this restaurant, the[re] are all types of pizza [o]n a table and you can pick any pizza you want. (Preliminary English Test; B1; Spanish)

pick (FLOWERS/FRUIT)

B1 If you pick flowers or fruit, you take them off a plant or tree.

Dictionary examples:

They were picking strawberries for twelve hours a day.

I picked some apples this morning.

Learner example:

Two weeks is quite a long time so I am planning to go cycling [i]n the mountains, gather acorns, pick flowers, go hiking and watch the sun set. (Preliminary English Test; B1; Singhalese)

pick up the pieces

C2 to try to get back to an ordinary way of life after a difficult experience

Dictionary example:

After Ruth's death, Joe found it hard to pick up the pieces and carry on.

Learner example:

Now that I'm settled in my own country, picking up the pieces and trying to start a new life, I've decided that having a diary is not a bad idea after all. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Spanish)

pick on sb

B2 to choose a person and criticize or treat them unfairly

Dictionary example:

The other boys pick on him because he's so small.

Learner example:

They gave themselves names and acted as gangs rather than just groups of friends, and started picking on younger people, or mem[b]ers of other gang[s], trying to start fights with them. (First Certificate in English; B2; Turkish)

pick up sb/sth or pick sb/sth up (LIFT)

A2 to lift someone or something using your hands

Dictionary examples:

If the baby starts to cry, pick her up and rock her.

I picked up the kids' clothes that were lying on the floor.

Learner example:

I suddenly got an idea. I picked up a ball and kicked it. [T]he dog ran after it with the phone still in his mouth, [and] I followed him. (Preliminary English Test; B1; Hindi)

pick up sb/sth or pick sb/sth up (GET)

A2 to get someone who is waiting for you, or to get something that you have left somewhere

Dictionary examples:

I have to pick the children up from school.

When you're in town could you pick up the books I ordered?

Learner example:

I will pick you up and arrange everything. (Key English Test; A2; Burmese)

pick up sth or pick sth up

B2 to learn a new skill or language by practicing it rather than being taught it

Dictionary example:

When you live in a country you soon pick up the language.

Learner example:

I am [a] very good swimmer and I know some basic sailing techniques which I picked up while I was in Canada. (First Certificate in English; B2; Japanese)