Picking: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is used when you are making a casual or informal choice, often from a number of small items or options. It is less formal and typically used in everyday situations.

• I'm picking apples from the orchard
• She spent hours picking the right dress for the party

The term 'choosing' is a more general term used when you want to talk about making a selection from multiple options. It can be used in both informal and formal contexts.

• She is choosing a new phone to buy
• They are choosing a name for their baby

The word 'selecting' is typically used in more formal or specific contexts, such as when making a choice based on set criteria. It's often used in business, academic, or technical settings.

• The panel is selecting candidates for the scholarship
• She is selecting the best design for the new website

This word is used when you are making a judgment after considering different options. It often implies a more deliberate or thoughtful process than simply 'picking' or 'choosing'.

• He is deciding whether to accept the job offer
• They are still deciding the best time to go on vacation

Used when selecting or taking fruits, vegetables, or flowers by hand. Often used in the context of small-scale or personal activities.

• We're going apple picking this weekend
• She enjoys picking flowers in her garden

Used in the context of agriculture when crops are ripe and ready to be taken from the fields. Generally refers to large-scale farming operations.

• The farmers are harvesting wheat in the fields
• He helps in harvesting the grapes every autumn

Used when bringing together people or things, often in a formal or organized way. Can refer to both social events and the act of amassing items.

• They are gathering for a family reunion
• She is gathering information for her report

Used when gathering items systematically, often as a hobby, interest, or for a specific purpose. Can apply to both tangible and intangible items.

• He is collecting stamps from different countries
• She is collecting data for her research project