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Jyutpinghaa1
Yale
動詞Common

Definition

To bully, pick on, or oppress those who are weaker than oneself.

colloquialpeopleemotion

How it's used

This verb implies a power imbalance where the perpetrator feels superior to the victim. It is frequently used in the context of older siblings or stronger peers taking advantage of those who are younger or weaker. When used as an adjective, it describes someone who is prone to bullying others.

Examples

Don't always bully your younger brother.
He is so well-behaved, who would bully him?

Related words

Common phrases

the strong bullying the weak

Common mistake

Do not confuse this with the noun 蝦 meaning shrimp. The context of the sentence will clarify whether it is being used as a verb for bullying or as a food item.

Grammar color guide

Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector