Etymology Journal ยท C
Can I pick your brain?
Meaning
- A request to ask someone for their advice, knowledge, or expertise on a particular subject. It assumes the person is smart and worth consulting.
Flattering, professional
Used in a sentence
- I have a quick question, can I pick your brain?
- Can I pick your brain about how to fix this leak?
- He is a real expert, you should try to pick his brain.
The backstory
This metaphorical phrasing emerged in the early 20th century. It suggests that you are harvesting the information stored inside the other person's head.
Heard in
Nationwide
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