pick corners: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘pick corners’ mean?
The idiom "pick corners" means to engage in a process cautiously or carefully, considering every possible option or aspect before making a decision.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "scratch the surface" means to only uncover or reveal a small part or a superficial level of something, without fully understanding or exploring its depth or complexity.
The idiom "rough around the edges" means that someone or something may appear imperfect or unrefined, but still has potential or qualities that make them interesting or valuable.
"Root around" is a commonly used idiom in English that dates back to the late 16th century. This idiom is derived from the verb "root," which means to search or rummage through something in a determined and thorough manner. The word "root" itself can be traced back to the Old English word "rotian," meaning to dig or pierce.
The idiom "roll the dice" means to take a risk or make a decision without knowing the outcome or consequences.
One idiom that is commonly used in American English is "roll the dice." This phrase is often used to describe taking a chance or making a risky decision. The origin and meaning of this idiom can be explored to gain a deeper understanding of its usage.
The idiom "play the angles" means to use clever or strategic tactics to achieve a desired outcome or advantage.
The idiom "pick someone's brain" means to obtain information or advice from someone by asking them questions and seeking their expertise or knowledge.
The idiom "pick of the litter" means to choose the best person or thing from a group. It comes from the practice of selecting the best puppy from a litter of newborn dogs.
The idiom "pick holes" means to criticize or find fault in something, often in a nit-picky or overly critical manner.
Enigmatic Origins: Unveiling 'Pick Corners'
The idiom "pick corners" refers to the act of choosing to reside in secluded or less accessible locations. This phrase is not commonly used in modern everyday conversation and is not widely recognized by English speakers. The exact origin and historical usage of this idiom are unclear, and no concrete evidence is available to suggest when or where it may have originated, or how it was used in different contexts. Despite the lack of information, speculation suggests that "pick corners" could metaphorically represent making unconventional choices or taking alternate paths, deviating from the well-trodden routes and choosing a more secluded approach.
The idiom "cherry-pick" is related to "pick corners." When someone "cherry-picks," they selectively choose the best or most desirable things from a group. This term is commonly used in various contexts, such as selecting the best pieces of fruit from a basket or choosing only the most advantageous options from a set of possibilities. In the context of "pick corners," the act of choosing to reside in secluded locations could be seen as a form of "cherry-picking" a living situation, selecting a place that offers the most desirable attributes or advantages.
The related idiom "pick apart" refers to the act of examining something carefully, often with critical intent, in order to find faults or weaknesses. When you "pick apart" something, you closely analyze it, dissecting the various components to identify any flaws or shortcomings. In relation to "pick corners," one could argue that the act of choosing to reside in secluded or less accessible locations involves a careful examination of the various options, weighing the pros and cons of each corner before making a decision. This scrutiny helps to ensure that the chosen corner aligns with the individual's preferences and needs.
The idiom "pick holes" is another related phrase. When someone "picks holes" in something, they find faults or errors in it, often in a critical or nit-picky way. This expression is commonly used to describe someone who constantly finds flaws or problems in anything presented to them. In the context of "pick corners," one could argue that the act of choosing to reside in secluded locations involves a similar mindset. By carefully assessing the corners and selecting the most secluded one, the individual is essentially "picking holes" in the available options, searching for the ideal living situation that meets their specific criteria and preferences.
The expression "rough around the edges" is also related to "pick corners." When something or someone is described as "rough around the edges," it means they are not perfect or polished and may have some imperfections or flaws. In the context of "pick corners," one could interpret this idiom as highlighting the choice to reside in secluded or less accessible locations, which may not offer the same level of convenience or amenities as more popular or central areas. By deliberately choosing a location that is "rough around the edges," the individual emphasizes their preference for authenticity and character over a polished or mainstream environment.
The idiom "pick at" is the final related phrase. When someone "picks at" something, they continuously find faults or criticize it, often in a nagging or annoying way. This expression is commonly used to describe someone who constantly nitpicks or finds minor issues with a particular subject. In relation to "pick corners," one could argue that the act of meticulously choosing a secluded or less frequented corner aligns with the mindset of someone who "picks at" the available options. By scrutinizing each corner and finding the one that meets their specific criteria, the individual demonstrates a thorough examination and attention to detail, similar to someone who constantly picks at and analyzes various aspects of a subject.
Although the idiom "pick corners" is not commonly used or widely recognized, it refers to the act of choosing to reside in secluded or less accessible locations. Speculation suggests that it could metaphorically represent making unconventional choices or taking alternate paths. Related idioms such as "cherry-pick," "pick apart," "pick holes," "rough around the edges," and "pick at" provide further insights into the concept of "pick corners," highlighting the selective, critical, and meticulous nature of the decision-making process.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *pick corners* can be used in a sentence:
- He studied the map carefully and picked corners to avoid the heavy traffic.
- The goalkeeper quickly analyzed the striker's movements and successfully picked corners, preventing any goals.
- During the game, the player strategically picked corners to shoot his free throws, maximizing his chances of scoring.
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