The Open Dictionary

pick up on something

Related to word: pick

Phrasal Verb

Definition (notice)

  1. to become aware of something that others have overlooked.

    • She has a knack for picking up on details that others have overlooked.

    • If you pay attention, you'll pick up on some patterns that I've mentioned.

    • The teacher picked up on the fact that some students had not noticed the changes in class.

Definition (return)

  1. to resume discussion on a subject that was mentioned earlier by someone.

    • At the end of the meeting, Mary picked up on her earlier suggestion.

    • I hope we can pick up on this project during our next discussion.

    • John suggested that we pick up on the topic from last time in the next meeting.