Have you heard the phrase "to pick your brain" used...to mean to discuss something in depth? I just heard it used today, and it is one phrase that is just too literal for me. All I think about is actual picking of the brain!

It's perfectly common in my idiom. It means a bit more than you suggest, I think: if X is picking Y's brain on a topic, then Y is presumably some sort of authority on the subject, and X is questioning Y to try to get information or ideas for his/her own use. I think I've heard it more often as "pick someone's brains", but either is acceptable.

With Guy all the way on this one.


Try the opening scene of this (after the advert), episode three of my favourite bleak black comedy - The League of Gentlemen..

(Note - because it has adult humour you do need to log in to youtube to watch it)

quote:

Originally posted by BobHale:
Try the opening scene of this (after the advert), episode three of my favourite bleak black comedy - The League of Gentlemen..

Those of us outside of the UK can't watch this. It's a great show.

Maybe searching youtube will find an unofficial copy.

It's season one episode three opening sequence.

A man walks into the local shop and asks "Can I pick your brains" only to have the shopkeeper cower away covering her head with her arms.

Funnier to watch.

I guess he's not local. His mind has been warped by colours, sounds and shapes.

Yes, Guy, I agree with your definition. That's the way we use it, too.