: Physically separating something into its components (e.g., picking apart an engine).
If you are looking for alternatives depending on the level of intensity, consider: pick apart - Wiktionary, the free dictionary pick apart
: Systematically overcoming an opponent through skilled execution (e.g., a quarterback picking apart a defense ). Usage Examples : Physically separating something into its components (e
: "The lawyer picked apart the witness's testimony during the cross-examination". consider: pick apart - Wiktionary
The phrase is frequently used in professional and social contexts where scrutiny is high: