Did you pick up on his mood today?
pick up on
idiomTo notice, observe, learn, or understand, especially something otherwise overlooked.
She is very observant and managed to pick up on the tension between her two friends during dinner.
Although the speaker tried to remain composed, the audience quickly picked up on his subtle hesitation, which suggested he was hiding the truth.
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captain's pick
A decision made by a leader without consulting others.
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have a bone to pick
To have a complaint or grievance (with somebody); to have a contentious issue to discuss.
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pick apart
To review or analyse in great detail
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pick at
To touch, grab, handle, or pull tentatively or gingerly, using a utensil or one's fingers.
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pick corners
To choose a preference (as in predicting which boxer will win a match).
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pick holes
To find weaknesses, errors or imperfections (in).
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pick of the litter
The best person or item in a group; the best that one has to offer.
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pick on someone your own size
An admonition of cowardice, usually said to make someone cease harassing or bullying someone else, especially where the bullied party is physically smaller or weaker than the bully.
Last updated April 17, 2026