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beat up on

B1 informal inseparable transitive
In simple words

To hit someone or be very mean and unfair to them, especially if they can't fight back.

Literal meaning: To strike someone repeatedly while directing the action specifically at them.

Meanings

1 B1 informal

To physically assault someone, especially someone seen as a weaker target.

"Two older students were caught beating up on a first-year student."

Grammar: inseparable
2 B2 idiomatic informal

To criticize or attack someone verbally in an unfair or excessive manner.

"The opposition kept beating up on the senator over his voting record."

Grammar: inseparable
3 B1 idiomatic informal

To blame or criticize oneself excessively (reflexive: 'beat up on yourself').

"There's no point beating up on yourself — everyone makes mistakes."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

More common in American English than British. The figurative sense (to unfairly criticize) is very frequently used in political and media contexts. Often implies an unfair power imbalance.

Commonly used with

each other someone yourself critics opponent rival

Forms

Base
beat up on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
beats up on
he/she/it
Past simple
beat up on
yesterday
Past participle
beaten up on
have + pp
-ing form
beating up on
continuous

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