Picking Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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picking

[ˈpɪkɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

choosing

Select from a number of alternatives, typically with care.

Synonyms

choosing, deciding, selecting.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
picking

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
choosing

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
selecting

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
deciding

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

Examples of usage

  • She was picking her way through the rubble.
  • I picked a few flowers for her.
Context #2 | Noun

harvesting

The action of gathering crops.

Synonyms

collecting, gathering, harvesting.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
picking

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
harvesting

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
gathering

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
collecting

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

Examples of usage

  • The fruit-picking season had begun.
  • She was paid $7 an hour for picking apples.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'picking'

The word 'picking' dates back to the 14th century and is derived from the Middle English word 'pykkyng'. It originally meant 'to pluck with the fingers' and has evolved to encompass various meanings related to selecting, choosing, or harvesting.


See also: pick, picked, picker, pickiness, pickle, pickup, picky.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,206 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.