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prey on |
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prey (up)on someone or something
Fig. to take advantage of someone or something. (See also prey on something. Upon is formal and less commonly used than on.) The people of that island prey on tourists and do not give them good treatment. I really don't want to seem to prey upon your kindness. See also: prey prey on something [for an animal] to feed on another animal as a matter of habit or preference. Owls prey on mice. Many birds prey on snakes. See also: prey prey on somebody also prey upon somebody 1. to commit a crime against someone Police are looking for street criminals who prey on tourists. Gangs that prey upon small business owners in the city's Chinatown may be spreading to the suburbs. 2. to have an effect on someone Guilt preyed on him for years after the accident. Usage notes: sometimes said about something that has an effect on people's emotions: The ads prey on our fear of being alone. See also: prey prey on something also prey upon something to kill an animal in order to eat it Spiders prey on small flies and other insects. Seals often prey upon the same fish people are trying to catch. Usage notes: said about animals that kill other animals for food See also: prey Want to thank TFD for its existence? Tell a friend about us, add a link to this page, add the site to iGoogle, or visit the webmaster's page for free fun content. |
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I suppose it is too insignificant to be noticed by the great Epeira, and is therefore allowed to prey on the minute insects, which, adhering to the lines, would otherwise be wasted. Reuben Limbrick's relatives, occasionally coming to stay with him, found the place prey on their spirits, and rejoiced when the time came for going home again. |
prey on |
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