abuse

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun

n. using something in a wrong or harmful way, like power or drugs.

n. the improper or excessive use of something, particularly substances or positions of authority.

“The reporter exposed the politician's abuse of power during the election.”

“Public health initiatives are focusing on the long-term effects of substance abuse in rural communities.”

C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Formal

n. rude, angry, or insulting words said to someone.

n. offensive, insulting, or vilifying language directed at a person. Usually uncountable.

“The referee had to stop the game because of the verbal abuse from the fans.”

“The witness described a torrent of racial abuse directed at the shopkeeper during the confrontation.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate

v. to treat a person or animal in a cruel or violent way.

v. to subject a person or animal to physical or emotional harm. Transitive verb requiring a direct object.

“He was arrested after neighbours reported that he was abusing his dog.”

“The regime was accused of abusing political prisoners to extract confessions before their trials.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate

v. to use something wrongly or too much, especially for your own advantage.

v. to use something improperly or for a wrong purpose; to exploit a privilege or substance.

“You should not abuse the trust your manager has placed in you.”

“The company was fined for abusing its dominant market position to crush smaller competitors.”

C1 · Advanced Formal

v. to speak to someone in a very rude or insulting way.

v. to attack someone verbally with offensive or disparaging language.

“The angry customer began to abuse the staff when they refused his refund.”

“The protesters were seen abusing passers-by who refused to join their demonstration.”