Differences between pick on and tell on
Pick on means to repeatedly tease or bully someone, while tell on means to report someone's wrongdoing or misbehavior to an authority figure.
Meanings and Definitions: pick on vs tell on
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Pick on
- 1Bother, annoy, criticize or make fun of someone.
My friends always PICK ON me because I don't sing well.
Tell on
- 1Report someone to an authority.
The pupil TOLD ON the others for cheating and the teacher failed them.
Usage Examples: pick on, tell on in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
pick on
Example
My classmates always pick on the new student.
Example
He picks on his younger brother all the time.
tell on
Example
If you don't stop making noise, I will tell on you to the teacher.
Example
She always tells on her classmates when they break the rules.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Pick on
tease
To make fun of someone in a playful or lighthearted way.
Example
He likes to tease his little sister by calling her silly names.
bully
To intimidate or harm someone who is weaker or vulnerable.
Example
The school principal took action against the student who was bullying his classmates.
harass
To persistently bother or torment someone, often with malicious intent.
Example
She filed a complaint against her coworker who was harassing her with inappropriate comments.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Tell on
To inform someone in authority about something that has happened or someone's behavior.
Example
He decided to report the incident to the police to prevent it from happening again.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “pick”
Phrasal Verbs with “tell”
Phrasal Verbs with “on”
Differences in pick on vs tell on: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: pick on or tell on?
In daily conversation, people use pick on more often than tell on. This is because teasing and bullying are more common occurrences in everyday life than reporting someone's behavior. However, both phrases are used in different contexts and situations.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of pick on and tell on
Pick on and tell on are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of pick on and tell on
The tone of pick on and tell on can differ based on context. Pick on often carries a negative or aggressive tone when related to teasing or bullying, while tell on typically has a neutral or even positive tone, especially when referring to reporting a wrongdoing.
