bully - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
bully Word Meanings
- a person who intimidates or harasses others
- to use strength or power to harm someone
- to persuade someone to do something through threats
bully Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
bully Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈbʊli/
US
/ˈbʊli/
bully Word Etymology
Root: bully = 'friend' (possibly from Dutch 'boel' meaning 'brother'), deceitfully adapted to imply strength over others. Historical origin: Dutch → Old French → English. Memory image: Picture a group of friends cheering and helping each other, turning into a hostile force when one member asserts dominance.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Bully is a word for a person who uses intimidation or aggression to control others, often peers, at school or online. As a verb, to bully means to threaten, harass, or press someone into doing something through fear or force. The noun describes someone who habitually teases, shoves, or belittles others, sometimes without reason, sometimes as a misguided display of power. People who bully may seek social status, retaliation for imagined slights, or practice in-group dominance. The harm is real even when the target avoids open conflict; consequences can include anxiety, lowered self-esteem, and withdrawal from activities. Remember that 'bully' is about power and fear, not simply being assertive or bossy.
Usage Reminders
- Remember bully often describes repeated behavior
- e. g., a pattern of intimidation; not a one-off incident
- Bullying involves a power imbalance and fear, not just being strict
- Use 'bully' as a noun for the person and 'to bully' as the verb
- Online bullying is cyberbullying and has its own settings and penalties
- Be mindful of sensitive contexts like schools, workplaces, and social media
- Offer support and report harmful behavior when appropriate
Common Misconceptions
- Bullies are only physically strong; size equals power
- Being bossy is the same as bullying
- Bullying only happens among children; adults never bully
- If you ignore it, bullying will stop on its own
- The bully is always a cruel villain with no reasons
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Study both noun and verb forms and their collocations.
- Learn common phrasal verbs with bully (bully around, bully into).
- Watch for cyberbullying terms and reporting procedures.
- Differentiate bullying from assertive leadership or strictness.
- Use safety-first language when discussing victims and bystanders.
- Practice empathetic responses and ways to seek help.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'bully'?
A.Intimidator
B.Kind
C.Confused
D.Fast
Step 2: Usage
Choose the sentence where 'bully' is used correctly:
A.She appreciated the bully attitude.
B.He was always bullied at school.
C.The bully was kind to everyone.
D.The bully helped his classmates.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an antonym of 'bully'?
A.Leader
B.Coward
C.Jokester
D.Brave
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what real-life context can someone be considered a bully?
A.Encouraging others
B.Repeatedly teasing and intimidating someone
C.Helping a friend
D.Sharing with others
Step 5: Mastery
Reflect on a time when you encountered a bully or witnessed bullying.
A.Reflect on a positive interaction
B.Reflect on a negative experience
C.Reflect on a neutral situation
D.Reflect on a funny moment
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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