# abuse of distress

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/abuse-of-distress
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

a wrongful using of an animal or chattel distrained, by the distrainer

## Examples

- The landlord committed an abuse of distress by using the seized furniture.
- Because the creditor used the horse he had taken as security, the court ruled that he was guilty of an abuse of distress.
- The legal claim centered on the defendant's abuse of distress, as he had actively employed the impounded machinery for his own profit while the debt remained unpaid.

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