pick on
Single out cruelly
To pick on someone is to single them out for criticism, teasing, or mistreatment, often repeatedly.
The phrase suggests unfairness—the target is usually weaker or unable to fight back effectively.
The bigger kids always picked on him at recess.
Parents and teachers commonly admonish bullies with pick on someone your own size, meaning find an equal opponent rather than an easy target.
tease
Mock playfully
target · victimize · single out · scapegoat · mock · ridicule · belittle · demean · intimidate · persecute
fault
Imperfection or blame
find fault · scold · rebuke · chide · reproach · admonish · censure · disparage · berate · condemn
pick ondefend
Protect from harm
protect · stand up for · befriend · support · look after
pick onstand up for
Defend against criticism
stick up for · champion · look out for · have someone's back · side with
on, pick, picking, picked, pick out, picks, nitpick, picker, nitpicking