Pick a fight Meaning in English
expression
ˈpɪk/ /ˈeɪ/, /ə/ /ˈfaɪt
PIK-uh-FYTE
pˈɪk/ /æɪ/ /fˈaɪt
PIK-uh-FYTE
Definition
To intentionally start an argument or fight with someone, often without a good reason.
Usage & Nuances
Informal. Used when someone provokes a conflict on purpose. Often used for verbal arguments, but can apply to physical fights. Common with 'with': 'pick a fight with someone.' Suggests unnecessary or aggressive behavior.
Spanish: provocar una pelea - buscar peleaPortuguese (BR): arranjar briga - provocar uma brigaPortuguese (PT): arranjar uma briga - provocar uma brigaChinese (Simplified): 挑起争端 - 找茬打架Chinese (Traditional): 挑起爭端 - 找碴打架Hindi: झगड़ा मोल लेना - लड़ाई शुरू करनाArabic: إثارة شجار - البحث عن مشكلةBengali: ঝগড়া লাগানো - মারামারি লাগানোRussian: ссориться - затеять дракуJapanese: けんかを売るVietnamese: kiếm chuyện gây gổ - gây sựKorean: 시비를 걸다 - 싸움을 걸다Turkish: kavga çıkarmak - tartışma başlatmakUrdu: لڑائی کرنا - جھگڑا نکالناIndonesian: mencari gara-gara - memancing keributan
Example Sentences
He tried to pick a fight with his brother.
basic
Don't pick a fight over something so small.
basic
Sometimes kids pick a fight to get attention.
basic
Why did you pick a fight with your boss? That was risky.
natural
He's always looking to pick a fight, even when everyone else is calm.
natural
If you're tired, don't pick a fight—just go home and rest.
natural