Misuse

/ˌmɪsˈjuːs/

Meaning & Definition

noun

the incorrect or improper use of something.

The misuse of social media can lead to serious consequences.

abuse or exploitation of someone or something.

His history of misuse of power made him a controversial figure.

verb

to use something in a way that is not intended or appropriate.

He misused the company's funds for personal expenses.

to abuse or exploit something for one’s own benefit.

The athlete was banned for misusing performance-enhancing drugs.

to use incorrectly or inappropriately.

She misused the terms in her essay, leading to confusion.

From Middle English 'misusen', from 'mis-' + 'usen' (to use), equivalent to mis- + use.

misuse of privilege

Using one's advantages inappropriately or unethically.

misuse of resources

Improper or wasteful use of available resources.

misuse of information

Inappropriate use of data or knowledge, often leading to harm.

abuse

The improper use of something, typically in a harmful or damage-causing way.

exploitation

The act of using someone or something unfairly for one's own advantage.

mismanagement

Failure to manage something properly.

To mess up

He really misused that setup; it crashed.

To mess around with

Don't misuse my things; they're not toys.