abuse
Translation
abuse, misuse, ill-treatment, insults
Examples
Child abuse is a terrible crime.
Child abuse is a terrible crime.
He shouted verbal abuse at the referee.
He shouted verbal abuse at the referee.
This is an abuse of power.
This is an abuse of power.
Grammar Patterns
((abuse of sth.)) the improper use of (sth.) It was a clear abuse of his authority.
(((type of) abuse)) a specific kind of mistreatment The report detailed cases of physical abuse.
Similar Words
Synonyms: misuse, mistreatment, exploitation; Antonyms: respect, care
Etymology
From Latin 'ab-' (away, wrongly) + 'uti' (to use). Literally 'to use wrongly'.
Memory Tips
Think 'abnormal use' – using something in a way that is wrong or harmful.