Pick off Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To remove, shoot, or eliminate people or things one by one, often carefully or from a distance. Can be used literally (as in sports or military), or figuratively (removing or handling items separately).
Usage & Nuances
'Pick off' is often used in contexts like sports, shooting, or describing attacks where targets are dealt with individually. It can also be used figuratively, such as handling problems or tasks one at a time. It is primarily informal and can carry a sense of methodical action.
Example Sentences
The sniper picked off the targets one by one.
basic
She picked off the leaves that had turned brown.
basic
The player tried to pick off the runner at first base.
basic
The team was strong at first, but the competition slowly picked them off.
natural
He likes to pick off easy questions first in exams.
natural
If we try to cross now, they'll just pick us off one at a time.
natural