Differences between prey on and try it on
Prey on means to exploit or take advantage of someone or something vulnerable, while try it on means to try on a piece of clothing or to test something out before committing to it.
Meanings and Definitions: prey on vs try it on
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Prey on
- 1Catch and kill an animal for food.
Spiders PREY ON insects.
- 2Exploit or harm.
They PREY ON older people.
Try it on
- 1Provoke someone by being annoying or behaving badly.
The children were TRYING IT ON all night until I lost my temper.
- 2Attempt to get something, usually by deceit, without great hopes of success.
He knew I wasn't got to let him do it- he was just TRYING IT ON.
Usage Examples: prey on, try it on in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
prey on
Example
Cats often prey on small birds and rodents.
Example
The snake preys on mice and other small animals.
try it on
Example
I want to try it on before I buy it.
Example
She tries it on to see if it matches her outfit.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Prey on
To use or manipulate someone or something for one's own gain.
Example
The politician was accused of exploiting the pandemic to gain more power and control.
To mistreat or harm someone or something physically, emotionally, or mentally.
Example
Domestic violence is a form of abuse that affects millions of people worldwide.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Try it on
To try a small amount of something before committing to it.
Example
At the grocery store, they were offering free samples of a new type of cheese, so I decided to sample it.
Differences in prey on vs try it on: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: prey on or try it on?
In daily conversation, people use try it on more often than prey on. This is because try it on is a common phrase used when shopping for clothes or trying out new products. Prey on is not used as much in everyday conversation, but it's still a useful phrase to know.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of prey on and try it on
Prey on and try it on are both 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 prey on and try it on
The tone of prey on and try it on can differ based on context. Prey on often carries a negative or critical tone when related to taking advantage of someone or something, while try it on typically has a practical and curious tone, especially when referring to trying on clothes or testing out new products.