picks on
Harasses a victim
To pick on someone is to single them out for criticism, teasing, or bullying—often repeatedly and unfairly: The older kids always picked on him at recess.
The phrase implies targeting someone weaker or less able to defend themselves.
It can also mean to criticize persistently: Why do you always pick on my driving?
- mockScornful imitation or fake
- make fun ofMock or tease
- teaseMock playfully
- mean girlSocially cruel adolescent female
- shovePush with force
criticize · nitpick · glare · torment · belittle · harass · victimize · power imbalance · punch down · taunt · name calling · smirk · ridicule · single out · zero in on · easy target · intimidate · push around
treatment/behavior toward others
picks ondefends
Acts to protect
supports · stands up for · protects · champions · encourages
power dynamic
picks onshields
Protective barriers for defense
shelters · mentors · watches over · looks after · safeguards