harassing
word · lemma: harass
/hɝˈæsɪŋ/
huh-RAS-ing
/həɹˈæsɪŋ/
huh-RAS-ing
Definition
Repeatedly bothering, threatening, or intimidating someone in a way that makes them feel uncomfortable, unsafe, or distressed.
Usage & Nuances
Usually formal or legal; often related to bullying, sexual, or workplace situations. Commonly used in passive forms ('being harassed'). May refer to verbal, physical, or digital actions. Be careful not to confuse with 'teasing' (less serious, playful).
Spanish: acosando - hostigandoPortuguese (BR): assediando - importunandoPortuguese (PT): assediando - importunandoChinese (Simplified): 骚扰Chinese (Traditional): 騷擾Hindi: परेशान कर रहा/रही/रहे हैंArabic: يُضايِق - يتحرشBengali: হয়রানি করা - উত্যক্ত করাRussian: домогаться - преследовать - приставатьJapanese: 嫌がらせをするVietnamese: quấy rốiKorean: 괴롭히다 - 희롱하다Turkish: rahatsız etmek - taciz etmekUrdu: ہراساں کرناIndonesian: quấy rối - làm phiền liên tục
Example Sentences
She reported her boss for harassing her at work.
basic
He was caught harassing people online.
basic
You can be fired for harassing coworkers, even if it’s just messages.
natural
If someone keeps harassing you, tell a trusted adult.
natural
Stop harassing your classmates.
basic
People don’t realize how damaging harassing messages can be.
natural