English dictionary
abuse
nounPronunciation
əˈbjuːs
Audio pronunciation
Parts of speech
Definitions
noun
- cruel or inhumane treatment
noun
- improper or excessive use
noun
- a rude expression intended to offend or hurt
verb
- change the inherent purpose or function of something
verb
- use wrongly or improperly or excessively
verb
- use foul or abusive language towards
verb
- treat badly
Example sentences
the child showed signs of physical abuse
alcohol abuse
the abuse of public funds
when a student made a stupid mistake he spared them no abuse
they yelled insults at the visiting team
Don't abuse the system
The director of the factory misused the funds intended for the health care of his workers
Her husband often abuses alcohol
while she was pregnant, she abused drugs
The actress abused the policeman who gave her a parking ticket
The angry mother shouted at the teacher
This boss abuses his workers
She is always stepping on others to get ahead