Victimize: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when referring to situations where someone is unfairly treated or made to suffer.

• She felt victimized by the unfair accusations
• The bullying at school victimizes vulnerable students

This term is appropriate when someone takes selfish or unfair advantage of another person or situation for their own benefit.

• The company exploited its workers by making them work long hours without overtime pay
• She felt exploited by her friend's constant demands for help

This word is used when someone treats another person cruelly or violently, especially on a regular basis. It carries a strong negative connotation.

• He was abused by his parents throughout his childhood
• Workplace harassment can constitute abuse

This word is used when talking about prolonged cruel or unjust treatment, often by a group or authority towards another group or individual.

• The dictator oppressed the citizens by limiting their freedoms
• Minority groups were oppressed for many years under the regime

Use 'target' when someone is deliberately chosen for something, often negative, such as criticism, attacks, or scams.

• The hackers targeted the company's database
• She felt targeted by the constant gossip

Using unfair tactics to harm or take advantage of someone, often repeatedly over time. It is often used in legal or psychological contexts.

• Bullies tend to victimize weaker students.
• He felt victimized by the unfair policies at work.

Exploiting or taking advantage of someone's weaknesses or vulnerabilities, often in a manipulative or deceitful manner.

• Scammers prey on elderly people who may not be familiar with internet scams.
• The lion preys on smaller animals in the wild.

Physically attacking someone. It may also be used in a legal context where it refers to the crime of physically attacking someone.

• The man was charged with assault after the bar fight.
• She was a victim of a brutal assault.

Tricking or deceiving someone to gain money or something valuable. Often used in financial or legal contexts.

• They were accused of trying to defraud the insurance company.
• The scammer defrauded elderly people out of their savings.

Attacking and robbing someone in a public place. Generally implies a sudden, violent action on the street.

• He was mugged while walking home late at night.
• The police are investigating a series of muggings in the area.