persecute
verb (used with object)
to pursue with harassing or oppressive treatment, especially because of religious or political beliefs, ethnic or racial origin, gender identity, or sexual orientation.
are persecuting
-
present progressiveof persecute.present progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or state that is currently taking place in the immediate present.
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.
He said prosecutors are persecuting him for “things that are standard practice throughout the U.S. business community, and in no way a crime.”
From Washington Times ● Jun. 29, 2021
McAfee has said authorities in Belize are persecuting him because he refused to pay them $2 million in bribes.
From Reuters ● Dec. 13, 2012
McAfee has said corrupt Belizean authorities are persecuting him, something officials in Belize deny.
From Salon ● Dec. 12, 2012
Officials deny that they are persecuting him and Belize’s Prime Minister Dean Barrow has said only that Mr. Mcfee is “bonkers.”
From New York Times ● Dec. 6, 2012
Good heavens!" cried the schoolmaster, "they are persecuting a lady!
From Only a Girl: or, A Physician for the Soul. by Wilhelmine von Hillern
