abuse
word
Definition
Abuse is cruel, harmful, or unfair treatment of a person, animal, or power. It can also mean using something in a wrong, excessive, or harmful way.
Usage & Nuances
Very common in serious contexts such as 'child abuse', 'drug abuse', 'abuse of power', and 'verbal abuse'. As a noun and verb, it often suggests repeated or serious harm, not just one rude action. Don't confuse it with general 'use'—'abuse' implies something wrong or damaging.
Example Sentences
The report showed signs of abuse in the home.
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Some athletes were banned for abuse of drugs.
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If you keep taking the pills like that, it's basically abuse.
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It is wrong to abuse your power.
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He grew up in a house where abuse was treated like a secret.
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The article calls out the company's abuse of customer data.
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