pick and mix

British

noun

a selection of sweets from which the customer can choose, paid for by weight

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

adjective

allowing the user to choose items or ideas and combine them as he or she wishes

a pick-and-mix selection of fabric and wallpapers

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Sir Brian Leveson, a senior retired judge, warned ministers, the police and others that there could not be a "pick and mix" response to solving the crisis.

From BBC

Sir Brian said that his reports must not lead to a "pick and mix job" but all agencies must act quickly.

From BBC

Being able to pick and mix flavors and toppings, the quantity of each, and by association the final price is a huge plus.

From Salon

Look for the Kira Sport sandal in Strawberry Marshmallow and mini Fleming hobo bag in Sugared Licorice, or wear a bracelet featuring charms inspired by BonBon’s classic pick and mix candy, such as Swedish fish and sour skulls.

From Los Angeles Times

To some voters their plans might sound like an appealing pick and mix, but there are big questions over whether many of the plans are remotely workable.

From BBC

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023