Pick a lock
verb phrase
To open a lock without the key, usually by using a special tool or something similar.
He learned how to pick a lock by watching tutorial videos online.
Often appears as...
- successfully pick a lock
- illegally pick a lock
Usage tips
Disapproving
verb phrase
To solve a problem or overcome a difficulty with a clever or intricate solution.
Finding the loophole in the contract was just like picking a lock.
Often appears as...
- pick a lock of a problem
- pick a lock of an issue
Usage tips
Approving
Colloqial
verb phrase
To open a lock without the key, usually by using a special tool or something similar.
He learned how to pick a lock by watching tutorial videos online.
Often appears as...
- successfully pick a lock
- illegally pick a lock
Usage tips
Disapproving
verb phrase
To solve a problem or overcome a difficulty with a clever or intricate solution.
Finding the loophole in the contract was just like picking a lock.
Often appears as...
- pick a lock of a problem
- pick a lock of an issue
Usage tips
Approving
Colloqial
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Special Skills
Implies using skills not known by everyone, often related to locksmithing or sometimes crime.
The thief was able to pick the lock and steal the jewels.
Pro Tip 2/3Illegal Implications
Often associated with illegal activity, though it can be done by authorized persons, like locksmiths, in legal contexts.
To enter the abandoned house, they had to illegally pick the lock.
Pro Tip 3/3Tense Situations
Frequently used in stories or movies to create a sense of tension or urgency.
The protagonist had to pick the lock quickly to escape the guards.
Pro Tip 1/3Special Skills
Implies using skills not known by everyone, often related to locksmithing or sometimes crime.
The thief was able to pick the lock and steal the jewels.
Pro Tip 2/3Illegal Implications
Often associated with illegal activity, though it can be done by authorized persons, like locksmiths, in legal contexts.
To enter the abandoned house, they had to illegally pick the lock.
Pro Tip 3/3Tense Situations
Frequently used in stories or movies to create a sense of tension or urgency.
The protagonist had to pick the lock quickly to escape the guards.
Pro Tip 1/3Special Skills
Implies using skills not known by everyone, often related to locksmithing or sometimes crime.
The thief was able to pick the lock and steal the jewels.
Pro Tip 2/3Illegal Implications
Often associated with illegal activity, though it can be done by authorized persons, like locksmiths, in legal contexts.
To enter the abandoned house, they had to illegally pick the lock.
Pro Tip 3/3Tense Situations
Frequently used in stories or movies to create a sense of tension or urgency.
The protagonist had to pick the lock quickly to escape the guards.
Never forget "Pick a lock"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension