gets to pick

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gets to pick" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that someone has the opportunity or privilege to choose something. Example: "In the game, the winner gets to pick the next challenge for the team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

(If he does, he gets to pick his successor).

The New Yorker

Or that the employer gets to pick the arbitrator?

The New York Times

"Only one person gets to pick the best player.

The Guardian - Sport

Palm Beach County gets to pick the next president.

The New York Times

Problem is, Monez only gets to pick from half the field.

The New York Times

Guess who gets to pick a majority of its new members.

The New York Times

Then, the political establishment — mainly the Legislature — gets to pick most of the delegates.

The New York Times

"By the way, and if she gets to pick her judges, nothing you can do, folks.

The Washington Post

No one gets to pick and choose who gets to speak, who gets the stage".

The New York Times

"Our rule is whoever's driving gets to pick the audio book, " Ms. Jameson said.

The New York Times

"I think," he said, "Bruce gets to pick anyone he wants".

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "gets to pick", ensure that the context clearly defines the options from which the selection is being made. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "gets to pick" when there is no genuine choice involved. The phrase implies a selection from multiple options, so ensure this condition is met.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gets to pick" functions as a verb phrase indicating that someone has the opportunity or privilege to make a selection. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Wiki

14%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Science

8%

Reference

8%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "gets to pick" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to indicate that someone has the opportunity or privilege of making a choice. As Ludwig AI points out, it's widely used in various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Wiki sources. While its register is generally neutral but leans slightly towards the informal, it effectively communicates agency and control over a selection process. Alternatives such as "has the privilege of choosing" or "is entitled to select" can be used to vary the expression or adjust the formality level. When using "gets to pick", make sure the context makes options for choice clear.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can make the selection

A more concise way of stating the ability to choose.

has the option to select

Highlights the availability of the selection, rather than an obligation.

is allowed to choose

Indicates permission is granted to make the selection.

has the privilege of choosing

Emphasizes the advantage or honor associated with making the selection.

is permitted to select

Similar to "is allowed to choose", but may imply a more formal authorization.

is able to choose

Focuses on the capacity or ability to make the selection.

is in a position to pick

Highlights the advantageous situation enabling the selection.

is entitled to select

Highlights the right or justification for making the choice.

holds the power to choose

Emphasizes the authority or control in making the selection.

is authorized to choose

Focuses on the permission or approval granted to make the selection.

FAQs

How can I use "gets to pick" in a sentence?

Use "gets to pick" to indicate that someone has the opportunity or privilege to choose something. For instance, "The winner "gets to pick" the movie for tonight" implies a reward or advantage.

What are some alternatives to "gets to pick"?

Alternatives include "has the option to select", "is able to choose", or "has the privilege of choosing", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "gets to pick" formal or informal?

"Gets to pick" is generally considered informal. In more formal contexts, consider alternatives like "is entitled to select" or "is authorized to choose".

What's the difference between "gets to pick" and "has to pick"?

"Gets to pick" implies a privilege or desirable opportunity to choose, while "has to pick" suggests an obligation or necessity to choose, even if it's not particularly enjoyable. The first is a reward, the second is a task.