pick either one

USAGE SUMMARY

"Pick either one" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to give someone a choice between two options. For example, "Please pick either one of the two items to add to your cart."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

I could pick either one.

Huffington Post

So, why am I saying that Obama should not pick either one of them as Secretary of Defense?

Huffington Post

The question measuring opinions and attitudes gave 4 possibilities where the participants were asked to pick either one or more most adequate answers presenting their opinion.

BMC Medical Ethics

Pick either one, grab a table and enjoy the afternoon kaffeeklatsch hour like a regular.

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

But the real answer was "One mangy sheep spoils a whole flock," very close to Mr. Landsman's entry, but no one picked either one, giving Mr. Valentin three points and the lead.

The New York Times

But think of the collective yawn picking either one would produce throughout the media and electorate.

Huffington Post

Also, some fights may have you pick either side of a one-on-one match; when this happens, you can pick either side, but you must win with the character you picked.

WikiHow

"We had a conviction on two corners and I never thought we'd get either one picking 30th," Accorsi said.

The New York Times - Sports

We just lost them both over the last year, so it's still a little weird to not be able to pick up the phone and call either one of them.

Huffington Post

Either one can initiate the offense, run the pick and roll or spot up for a jump shot.

The New York Times - Sports

Either one is not enough".

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "pick either one" when clearly presenting a binary choice and want to encourage a decision. For example, "Pick either one; both options qualify for the discount".

Common error

Avoid using "pick either one" when more than two options are available. "Either" specifically refers to two choices. If there are more than two, use "pick one" or "choose any one".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pick either one" functions as an imperative phrase, directing someone to make a selection from two options. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's a direct way to offer a binary choice, encouraging a decision.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pick either one" is a grammatically sound phrase used to present a choice between two options. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, highlighting its common usage in news, media and wiki contexts. While straightforward and generally neutral, the phrase is less common in formal settings. When using "pick either one", ensure that only two choices are available to avoid confusion. To add variety to your writing, consider using alternatives like "choose between the two" or "select either option".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Choose between the two

Focuses on the act of choosing rather than the allowance of selecting any.

Select either option

Replaces "pick" with the more formal "select" implying a slightly more deliberate choice.

Opt for one of the two

Emphasizes the act of making a decision, suggesting a more considered choice.

Make your selection

A more general term implying options exist, but not limited to just two.

Decide on one

Highlights the decision-making process, applicable when the options are already known.

Take your pick

An idiomatic alternative that is more informal and friendly.

Designate one of the alternatives

A very formal alternative for scenarios requiring precision.

Settle on one

Similar to "decide on one", implying an arrival at a conclusion.

Go with either

A more casual option indicating indifference or equal suitability of options.

Indicate your preference

A broader alternative asking to show which is better for the user.

FAQs

How to use "pick either one" in a sentence?

Use "pick either one" when you want to offer a choice between exactly two options. For example, "You can "pick either one", but not both."

What can I say instead of "pick either one"?

Alternatives include "choose between the two", "select either option", or "opt for one of the two", depending on the context and level of formality.

Is it correct to say "pick either one" when there are more than two options?

No, "either" implies a choice between exactly two items. If there are more than two options, use "pick any one" or "choose one".

What's the difference between "pick either one" and "choose either one"?

While both phrases are grammatically correct and convey the same meaning, "pick" tends to be slightly more informal compared to "choose either one". The best selection depends on the specific context and target audience.