Molest: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when referring to inappropriate or unwanted sexual behavior, often involving children. It carries very negative connotations and is taken very seriously.

• He was arrested for molesting a child.
• The teacher was accused of molesting several students.

This word is broader and can refer to physical, emotional, or sexual harm done to someone, often over a period of time. It indicates a misuse of power or trust.

• She suffered years of emotional abuse from her partner.
• Child abuse is a serious crime.

This word describes unwanted behavior that bothers or annoys someone, especially repeatedly. It can be sexual, verbal, or physical in nature.

• She was harassed at work by her colleague.
• They are harassing him with constant phone calls.

This term is most often used in legal contexts to describe a violent attack on someone, which can be either physical or sexual. It is generally considered a serious crime.

• He was charged with assault after the bar fight.
• The victim of the assault was taken to the hospital.

Use this word to describe breaking a law, promise, or someone's personal rights, including personal space or privacy. It has a very negative connotation.

• He violated the terms of the contract.
• Her privacy was violated when someone hacked her email.

This word is often used in legal or serious contexts and has very negative connotations. It usually refers to unwanted or inappropriate physical contact or harassment.

• The man was arrested for attempting to molest a child.
• She felt threatened and molested by his inappropriate advances.

This word is used when someone causes inconvenience, disturbance, or slight irritation. It can be a bit stronger than 'annoy'.

• I'm sorry to bother you, but could you help me with this?
• It bothers me that you are always late.

Use this word when someone interrupts or prevents someone from being calm or at peace. It can imply a more significant intrusion than 'bother'.

• Please do not disturb him; he is sleeping.
• The loud music from the party disturbed me all night.

Use 'annoy' when someone does something that causes mild irritation or frustration. It is usually less severe than 'bother' or 'disturb'.

• His constant humming started to annoy everyone in the room.
• It annoys me when people talk during the movie.

This word is used when something progressively causes frustration or anger. It’s stronger than 'annoy' and suggests increasing discomfort.

• His habit of interrupting others really irritates me.
• The constant buzzing sound in the room was irritating to everyone.