persecute (C1)
verb
Pronunciation: /ˈpɜːrsɪkjuːt/
Definition
To persistently harass, harm, or oppress someone, especially because of their race, religion, or beliefs.
Examples
The regime began to persecute anyone who spoke out against the government.
Historically, many minority groups have been persecuted for their cultural practices.
It is illegal to persecute someone based on their sexual orientation.
How to Use persecute
- persecute for (prepositional phrase)
- To target and mistreat someone because of a specific reason or characteristic. — "She was persecuted for her outspoken views."
- persecute someone (collocation)
- To engage in the act of persistently harassing or oppressing an individual. — "The historical accounts detail how the ruler chose to persecute his enemies."
Synonyms of persecute
Words with a similar meaning to persecute:
Antonyms of persecute
Words with the opposite meaning to persecute:
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