Pick somebody’s pocket
verb
To steal from someone's pocket without them noticing.
While I was on the crowded subway, someone picked my pocket.
Often appears as...
- pick one's only pocket
- have your pocket picked
Usage tips
Colloquial
verb
To exploit or take advantage of someone in a dishonest or unfair way.
Many people feel that the company has been picking their pockets with its high prices.
Often appears as...
- pick the public's pocket
- corporations picking pockets
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
verb
To steal from someone's pocket without them noticing.
While I was on the crowded subway, someone picked my pocket.
Often appears as...
- pick one's only pocket
- have your pocket picked
Usage tips
Colloquial
verb
To exploit or take advantage of someone in a dishonest or unfair way.
Many people feel that the company has been picking their pockets with its high prices.
Often appears as...
- pick the public's pocket
- corporations picking pockets
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Context Matters
Use 'pick somebody's pocket' in situations where stealth or slyness is involved, like a thief in a crowd.
He moved through the festival crowd, looking to pick someone's pocket.
Pro Tip 2/3Literal Action
This phrase should be used when referring to the physical act of stealing from someone's pocket silently.
Be careful in cramped places where someone might pick your pocket.
Pro Tip 3/3Avoid Accusing Tone
Saying someone 'picked a pocket' could sound accusatory, so be cautious when using it.
I think her pocket was picked, but I can't say who did it.
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