# misused

/mɪsˈjuzd/ (US) · /mɪsjˈuːzd/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/misused
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

used in a way that is wrong, dishonest, or not what was intended. It describes something that people are not using correctly.

For teachers: used incorrectly, improperly, or for an unintended purpose. Often describes the application of power, funds, or linguistic terms.

## Examples

- The charity closed after reports of misused funds.
- The politician faced heavy criticism after it was revealed that he had misused public office for personal gain.
- While some linguistic shifts are natural, scholars argue that certain technical terms are so frequently misused in popular media that their original precision has been lost entirely.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a participial adjective before a noun or after a linking verb like 'be' or 'become'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.