What does the phrasal verb “pick on” mean? Explore the meaning and usage of the phrasal verb “pick on“, illustrated with examples:
Definition
1. To keep criticizing and treating someone unfairly or unkindly; to bully.
2. To select someone for a task, etc.
Example(s)
1. Bullies always pick on this poor little child.
She was repeatedly picked on by her boss.
Please stop picking on me! I’m fed up with your behavior.
2. The boss picked on me to write the report.
“The first sergeant pointed out that my non-drinker status was the reason he picked on me to do the job. He couldn’t trust any of the drinkers to safely do the job.”
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