Predatory describes behavior where someone takes advantage of others who are weaker or more vulnerable. The word comes from predator, an animal that hunts other animals for food, like a lion stalking a gazelle. When we talk about predatory behavior in people, we mean deliberately targeting those who can't easily defend themselves.

A predatory lender might offer loans with hidden fees to people who don't understand the complicated paperwork. A predatory company might use confusing contracts to trap customers. Schools teach kids to recognize predatory behavior so they can protect themselves and report it to trusted adults.

The word can also describe aggressive business tactics. A predatory business strategy might involve selling products at a loss temporarily to drive competitors out of business, then raising prices once the competition is gone. While competitive business practices are normal and legal, predatory ones cross ethical or legal lines.

In nature, being a predator is simply how some animals survive. When we call human behavior predatory, we're identifying something harmful: someone with power or knowledge using it to exploit others rather than compete fairly or treat people with respect.