Pronunciation: [pˈɪk ˈɒn] (IPA) 
The English phrase "pick on" means to unfairly target or harass someone. Its spelling follows the basic rules of English, with "pick" pronounced as /pɪk/ and "on" pronounced as /ɒn/. The "p" sound in "pick" is unvoiced, while the "k" sound is voiced. In IPA transcription, this would be represented as /pɪk ɒn/. "Pick on" can be either a phrasal verb or a prepositional phrase, and is frequently used in informal contexts.
The phrase "pick on" refers to the act of deliberately targeting or singling out someone, usually in a negative or bullying manner. It involves subjecting the individual to repeated acts of criticism, harassment, or mistreatment.
When someone "picks on" another person, they may engage in verbal abuse, physical aggression, or psychological torment to assert dominance or exert power over the targeted individual. This behavior often occurs consistently over time, making it a form of sustained victimization.
"Picking on" someone can take various forms, such as making derogatory comments, laughing at their expense, excluding them from social groups, spreading rumors or lies about them, or intentionally provoking them. The intention of the person initiating the actions is to belittle, humiliate, or intimidate their target.
Typically, "picking on" someone is perceived as an unfair and aggressive behavior, as it creates a hostile environment for the victim. This term is often used to describe situations that depict an imbalance of power, with one person taking advantage of their authority, physical strength, or social status to harass someone who is vulnerable or defenseless.
Overall, "picking on" refers to a pattern of deliberate mistreatment aimed at tormenting or harassing someone, usually with an intention to harm or gain satisfaction at the expense of another person's well-being.
The phrase "pick on" can be traced back to two separate words: "pick" and "on".
The word "pick" has its origins in the Old English word "pician", meaning "to prick or pierce". Over time, it evolved to include the meaning "to choose or select" as well as "to attack or provoke".
The word "on" is a preposition that dates back to the Old English word "an", which means "in or into a position of contact with an object". In the context of "pick on", it signifies that someone is being singled out for negative attention or mistreatment.
Therefore, the etymology of "pick on" suggests that the phrase originated by combining the idea of "choosing or attacking" with the notion of being "in contact or singled out" for negative treatment.
