abusive
Translation
abusive, insulting, violent
Examples
She left her abusive partner.
She left her abusive partner.
He shouted abusive language at the referee.
He shouted abusive language at the referee.
Grammar Patterns
((abusive to/towards sb.)) behaving in a cruel and violent way towards (sb.) He was abusive towards his children.
((abusive language/behaviour)) using rude and offensive words/actions Abusive behaviour is not tolerated.
Similar Words
Synonyms: cruel, insulting, offensive, violent; Antonyms: kind, respectful, gentle
Etymology
From 'abuse' plus the adjective-forming suffix '-ive', meaning 'tending to' or 'having the quality of'.
Memory Tips
The suffix '-ive' often means 'having the quality of'. So, 'abusive' means having the quality of abuse.