B2verbsocietypsychology
US/ˈbʊl.i/
UK/ˈbʊl.i/
to hurt, frighten or force someone weaker, often again and again
In context
Older boys used to bully him on the bus every morning.
She refused to be bullied into signing the contract.
Some managers bully their staff instead of explaining what they want.
Words that go with bully
verb + noun
- bully classmatesSome students bully classmates who look different.
- bully younger childrenHe used to bully younger children on the playground.
verb + preposition
- bully someone intoThey tried to bully him into resigning.
- be bullied at schoolHe was bullied at school for wearing glasses.
- be bullied at workShe was bullied at work by her manager.
- bully someone out ofThe firm tried to bully the tenants out of their homes.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
He is bullied by his classmates yesterday.Correct: He was bullied by his classmates yesterday.