prey on

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Scammers often prey on older people, many of whom are lonely and don’t have a large network to bounce ideas off.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 26, 2026

"The platform is designed to take advantage of kids' developmental needs and prey on their vulnerabilities."

From BBC • May 20, 2026

Being pro-business doesn’t mean giving corporate bad actors a free pass to prey on the people who make their profits possible.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 13, 2026

“And those individuals who prey on children for their own sexual gratification will be identified, they will be arrested, and they will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” he wrote.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 2, 2026

“She wants to give you the impression that she has power to spy on you in your bedroom. Witches prey on fear. Her influence does not extend beyond the walls of this shack.”

From "Fablehaven" by Brandon Mull