SpeakUp

Grammar fix

pick on

treat someone unfairly or bully them

To repeatedly treat someone in an unkind or unfair way, often by criticizing, teasing, or bullying them.

phrasal verbB1common

Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • The older kids used to pick on me at school because I wore glasses.daily life
  • In my opinion, teachers should step in if they see students picking on someone, because it can really affect a person's confidence.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: pick on + someone

WrongWhy are you always picking me?

RightWhy are you always picking on me?

'Pick ON someone' = bully; 'pick someone' = select them. Don't drop 'on'.

Patternpick on + someone

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff The older boys repeatedly subjected him to unfair treatment.

Natural The older boys kept picking on him.

'Pick on' is the everyday verb for bullying; the formal version is wordy.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • pick on + victim
    the new kidsomeone smallermehim

Don't confuse it

Do not confuse with 'pick up', which means to collect or lift something.

Try it in Daily Speak →