# pick on

CEFR B1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/pick-on
Updated: 2026-10-22

## Definition

to treat someone unfairly by criticizing them or teasing them many times. You use this when someone is being mean to a person who is weaker or different.

For teachers: to single out a person for repeated criticism, harassment, or unfair treatment. The verb is transitive and typically targets a person perceived as more vulnerable.

## Examples

- The older kids used to pick on him at school.
- It felt like the manager was picking on her because she was the only one who got extra work.
- Sociological studies suggest that individuals perceived as outliers within a group are more likely to be picked on by those seeking to enforce social hierarchies.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He always picks on to his younger sister." but "He always picks on his younger sister." — The phrasal verb 'pick on' takes an object directly; do not add the preposition 'to' after the particle.

## Usage notes

- The phrase is always followed by an object, which is usually a person or a specific group.
- Teaching tip: Contrast with 'bully' (more severe) and 'tease' (can be friendly); 'pick on' implies a repetitive, unfair focus on one person.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.