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Translate files Abuse
/əˈbjuːz/
Meaning & Definition
noun
the improper use of something.
The abuse of drugs is a serious problem in society.
cruel and violent treatment of a person or animal.
The report documented cases of physical and emotional abuse.
language that is violent or scornful.
He was shocked by the level of abuse directed at him online.
verb
to use something to bad effect or for a bad purpose; to misuse.
He was found to have abused his power as a manager.
to treat a person or an animal with cruelty or violence.
Children should never be abused in any form.
Etymology
Late Middle English: from Old French 'abuser', from Latin 'abusus', from 'ab' (from) + 'uti' (to use).
Common Phrases and Expressions
verbal abuse
The use of spoken words to harm someone.
substance abuse
The harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive substances.
abuse of power
The misuse of authority for harmful purposes.
Related Words
maltreatment
The act of treating someone poorly or cruelly.
exploitation
The act of taking advantage of someone unjustly.
neglect
The failure to care for someone properly.
Slang Meanings
To go overboard with something, often in a reckless way.
He really abused the party scene last night.
To take something for granted to the point of harm.
She abused her friends' kindness.