Assaulted: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone is physically attacked or threatened by another person. It often implies a violent action that can cause harm, and may be used in legal or formal contexts.

• She was assaulted while walking home from work
• The man was arrested for assaulting a police officer

A general term that can describe any aggressive action against someone, whether physical or verbal. It can be used in both casual and formal contexts.

• The dog was trained to attack intruders
• The politician was attacked for his controversial remarks

Informal and colloquial term to describe someone being physically hurt by others, typically in a street fight or bullying scenario.

• He got beat up by a group of bullies after school
• The thieves beat him up and took his wallet

Refers specifically to attacking someone in order to steal their possessions. It is commonly associated with street crimes.

• He was mugged on his way home from work
• The tourist was mugged and lost all her valuables

Typically refers to repeated, heavy hitting or striking, usually with negative connotations. It is often used to describe domestic violence situations.

• He was arrested for battering his spouse
• The man battered the door with a metal rod

A broader term that means causing physical harm or damage to someone's body. It can be used in both minor and severe contexts, including accidents or fights.

• He was injured in a car accident
• She injured her leg during the soccer match

Physical attack or violent harm. Used when someone physically injures another person.

• He was assaulted by an unknown attacker
• The victim was assaulted in the parking lot

Saying something to offend or disrespect someone. Can be verbal or nonverbal, and often involves direct mockery or rudeness.

• He insulted her by making a rude remark about her clothes
• The comedian's jokes unintentionally insulted some audience members

Scolding or criticizing someone angrily. This word often suggests a verbal attack that is prolonged.

• The coach berated the team for their poor performance
• He berated her for being late

Mistreatment causing harm, either physical or emotional. Often used in the context of ongoing or severe mistreatment.

• The child was a victim of severe abuse
• She suffered emotional abuse at the hands of her partner

Repeatedly annoying or troubling someone. Often used in legal or workplace contexts relating to unwanted and persistent behavior.

• She was harassed by her co-worker
• They decided to report the harassment to HR

Making someone or something seem less important or less valuable. Often used in discussions about disrespect or undermining someone's confidence.

• She felt belittled when her ideas were dismissed
• The manager shouldn't belittle his employees in front of others