PhrasesHub

Pick 'n' mix

    Definitions

      • variety
        Refers to a selection of different items or options that can be chosen from

      • personalized selection
        Refers to a customized selection of items or options, often in a retail or dining context

    Examples of Pick 'n' mix

    • She created a playlist on Spotify that was a true pick 'n' mix of genres.

      The phrase "pick 'n' mix" is used to describe something that allows you to choose a variety of items from a selection. In this example, the woman created a playlist that mixed together songs from different genres, giving her the ability to customize her listening experience.

    • The buffet at the restaurant was a pick 'n' mix of international cuisine.

      Here, the buffet selection had a variety of dishes from different countries, allowing diners to mix and match items to create their own unique meal.

    • The school offered a pick 'n' mix of extracurricular activities, from sports teams to arts clubs.

      In this example, the school provided a range of activities, enabling students to choose the ones that interested them and mix them together to create a well-rounded experience.

    • The clothing store had a pick 'n' mix of styles and brands, from high-end designer labels to more affordable brands.

      Shoppers could select from a range of styles and brands, creating a unique look that suited their tastes and budget.

    • I want to pick 'n' mix some activities for our company retreat.

      This means I want to choose a variety of different activities for our company retreat, similar to how you can choose a selection of candy in a pick 'n' mix store.

    • Her fashion sense is a real pick 'n' mix.

      This means her style is a mix of different elements that don't necessarily go together, similar to how you might choose a random mix of candies in a pick 'n' mix store.

    • Let's pick 'n' mix who's going to lead the project.

      This means we're going to choose a variety of people to lead different aspects of the project, rather than appointing a single person to oversee everything.

    • The meeting was a bit of a pick 'n' mix, with some important points and some less relevant ideas thrown in.

      This means the meeting included a mix of useful and less useful ideas, similar to how you might end up with some unwanted candies in a pick 'n' mix bag.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "pick 'n' mix" is commonly used to refer to a variety of options or a personalized selection. It can be used in a range of contexts, from discussing a selection of candies at a store to describing a customized package of services offered by a business. The idiom is versatile and can be applied to different situations where there are multiple choices or a tailored collection of items.

    Origin of "Pick 'n' mix"

    The origin of the idiom "pick 'n' mix" can be traced back to the concept of choosing and mixing different items. The phrase is commonly associated with the selection of candies at a store, where customers can pick and mix their favorite sweets to create a personalized assortment. This concept of variety and customization has been extended to other contexts, leading to the use of the idiom in a broader sense.

    The idiom "pick 'n' mix" has become a popular way to describe a diverse range of options or a tailored selection of items. Its origins in the retail and dining industries have influenced its usage in other areas, making it a widely understood and versatile expression in the English language. Examples of "pick 'n' mix" offerings can be found in various businesses, from customizable meal options at restaurants to personalized subscription packages for entertainment services.