pick and choose

/pˈɪk and tʃˈuːz/

/pˈɪk ænd tʃˈuːz/

[phrase]

to pick and choose

[PHRASE]

‌to choose the most desirable alternative out of the ones available

What is the origin of the idiom "pick and choose" and when to use it?

The idiom "pick and choose" originated from the combination of the words "pick" and "choose," which individually mean to select or make a choice. The exact origin of this phrase is difficult to trace, as it likely developed naturally within the English language over time. The concept of picking and choosing has been ingrained in human decision-making for centuries. The phrase itself has been in common usage for several centuries, appearing in written works as early as the 16th century. It has since become a widely recognized idiom that conveys the act of carefully selecting or making choices. It is commonly employed in situations where individuals have the freedom or opportunity to be selective.

Examples

1. You can't pick and choose which rules you want to follow and which ones you don't.

2. He could afford to take it easy and he picked and chose carefully whatever he wanted to do.

3. I don't really do all of them at once, but, you know, just pick and choose.

4. And when you deliver low-fares and you allow people to pick and choose those things that they like, that's how they they deliver an even lower fare for themselves and we think that's what what we do every day.