Bully: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe a person who habitually seeks to harm or intimidate those whom they perceive as vulnerable. Often used in school or workplace scenarios.

• The kids were afraid of the school bully who would take their lunch money
• She decided to stand up to the office bully

Describes someone who aims to make others feel timid or frightened, often through threats or aggressive behavior. Used in various contexts including personal and professional interactions.

• The intimidator used menacing gestures to control the crowd
• Everyone avoided the intimidator on the street

Typically refers to someone who persistently pressures or intimidates another person, often in a sexual, workplace, or online context. It has a strong negative connotation.

• The company has zero tolerance for any form of harasser
• She filed a complaint against her harasser at work

Refers to a person or group that exercises cruel or unjust authority or power over others, often in a socio-political context. It has a very strong negative connotation.

• The regime was known as an oppressor of free speech
• History is filled with examples of oppressors who ruled through fear and injustice

Used to describe someone who habitually seeks to harm or intimidate those whom they perceive as vulnerable. Often used in school or workplace settings.

• The older boys would bully the younger kids in the playground
• She was bullied at work for refusing to do things outside her job description

Used when someone is trying to make another person feel frightened or overpowered, typically to influence their behavior or decisions. Applicable in various settings, including personal, school, and work environments.

• The coach would often intimidate the players to get them to perform better
• She felt intimidated by her boss's aggressive manner

Used when someone is being forced to do something against their will through threats or pressure. Often used in legal, business, or political contexts.

• They tried to coerce the witness into giving false testimony
• The employees felt coerced to sign the agreement under pressure

Used to describe someone who is overbearing or excessively controlling, often in relationships or familial settings. The behavior can border on abusive.

• Her husband tends to domineer over her, making all the major decisions without discussing them
• His domineering attitude drove many friends away