careful picking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "careful picking" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of selecting something with caution or attention to detail. Example: "The gardener emphasized careful picking of the fruits to ensure only the ripest ones were harvested."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

But if the ground's wet, it'll put the coal out, and if you're not careful picking it back up you might put it out.

WikiHow

The main work that goes into cooking mussels is the careful picking over that must be done first, to make sure there are no dead mussels among the living.

The New York Times - Health

But after some careful picking and peeling, the stack finally relented.

Vice

Be careful picking up your hamster.

WikiHow

Be very careful picking it up.

WikiHow

Be careful picking the hamster up with your hands.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

You have to be careful, pick the days when you want to do well and just get through the others.

The Guardian - Sport

It's a huge risk so you have to be very careful, pick and choose your jumps and your moments.

BBC

She also became even more careful in picking her roles.

The New York Times

People are way more careful about picking a mayor or a governor than they are a legislator.

The New York Times

So to outflank the government, the Tories have set up their own commission on reform, which will shortly start holding public hearings.The Lords themselves have tried to be careful in picking their battles with Mr Blair.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In technical writing, replace "careful picking" with more precise terms like "selective sampling" or "judicious selection" to enhance clarity and maintain a formal tone.

Common error

Avoid using "careful picking" excessively in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "being selective" or "choosing wisely" to maintain a natural and less contrived tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "careful picking" functions primarily as a noun phrase modified by an adjective. It describes the act of selecting something with a high degree of caution and attention to detail. Examples provided by Ludwig show its use in various contexts, emphasizing the importance of being selective.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Wiki

33.3%

News & Media

33.3%

Science

11.1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

11.1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "careful picking" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to describe the act of selecting something with caution and attention to detail. Ludwig AI affirms its usability and correctness. While it's appropriate in various contexts, including news, wiki entries and science, be mindful to use more formal alternatives like "meticulous selection" in academic or highly professional settings. The examples provided by Ludwig emphasize its application across diverse fields, highlighting the importance of being selective and prudent in choice-making. Remember, context is key to ensure the most effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

meticulous selection

Emphasizes the thoroughness and precision involved in the selection process.

cautious choice

Highlights the element of risk aversion and prudence in making a decision.

prudent selection

Stresses the wisdom and good judgment applied during the selection.

discerning picking

Implies a refined taste or ability to distinguish quality.

selective harvesting

Particularly applicable when referring to the gathering of crops or resources, emphasizing discrimination in what is taken.

judicious choosing

Highlights the exercise of sound judgment in making a selection.

thoughtful selection

Focuses on the consideration and care given to the selection process.

attentive selection

Emphasizes the vigilance and focus applied during the selection.

deliberate choice

Highlights that the choice was intentional and considered, not accidental.

precise picking

Focuses on the exactness and accuracy of the selection process.

FAQs

How can I use "careful picking" in a sentence?

You can use "careful picking" to describe the act of selecting something with caution and attention to detail, such as, "The success of the project depended on the "careful picking" of qualified team members".

What are some alternatives to "careful picking"?

Some alternatives to "careful picking" include "meticulous selection", "prudent selection", or "discerning picking", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "careful picking"?

The phrase "careful picking" is appropriate when you want to emphasize the need for caution and attention to detail in the selection process. It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives may be preferable in academic or professional settings.

Is "careful picking" grammatically correct?

Yes, "careful picking" is grammatically correct. "Careful" is an adjective modifying the noun "picking", forming a descriptive phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English.