Bullying: meaning, definitions and examples

Bullying usually refers to repeated aggressive behavior by one person or group towards another, especially in school or online contexts. It often involves a power imbalance where the bully is stronger or more socially influential.

• The school has a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying.
• She spoke out against online bullying in her recent video.

Harassment is unwanted behavior that makes someone feel intimidated, insulted, or humiliated. It is often used in professional or legal contexts and can encompass a wide range of behaviors, not necessarily physical.

• The company takes any form of harassment in the workplace very seriously.
• She filed a complaint against her neighbor for harassment.

Intimidation refers to behavior intended to scare or coerce someone into doing something or acting in a certain way. It can happen in personal, professional, or even political contexts.

• The witness was hesitant to testify due to intimidation from the defendant's associates.
• The union members reported feeling intimidation from their management.

Oppression often indicates prolonged and systemic abuse and mistreatment, especially in a social or political context. It usually involves large groups being disadvantaged or held down by authority or societal norms.

• The novel explores themes of oppression under an authoritarian regime.
• For years, the minority groups faced social and economic oppression.

Bullying is used when someone repeatedly uses their power to hurt or intimidate another person, often in a school or workplace setting.

• The boy was a victim of bullying at school
• The company has a strict policy against bullying

Harass is suitable for describing persistent and aggressive behaviors or actions that disturb or upset someone, often in the workplace or in personal interactions.

• She complained to HR because her coworker was constantly harassing her
• The new laws make it easier to report harassment

Threaten is used when someone is making statements or actions that imply harm or danger to another person, often in conflict or aggressive situations.

• He threatened her with physical harm if she didn't comply
• The email contained a threatening message

Torment is used when someone causes extreme physical or mental suffering repeatedly or over a long period of time.

• The villain in the story tormented the hero relentlessly
• She was tormented by her memories of the past