Abuse

Definition

Abuse refers to the improper treatment or misuse of something or someone, often leading to harm, injury, or exploitation. It encompasses physical, emotional, and verbal mistreatment, as well as the improper use of resources or authority.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation (noun): /əˈbjus/
• Respelling: uh-BYOOS
• IPA Pronunciation (verb): /əˈbjuːz/
• Respelling: uh-BYOOZ

British English

• IPA Pronunciation (noun): /əˈbjuːs/
• Respelling: uh-BYOOS
• IPA Pronunciation (verb): /əˈbjuːz/
• Respelling: uh-BYOOZ

The pronunciation of "abuse" is similar in both American and British English, with the noun and verb forms having the same pronunciation in each.

Etymology

The word "abuse" originates from the Latin "abusus," meaning "misuse," from the verb "abuti" (to use up, consume), which is composed of "ab-" (away) and "uti" (to use). It entered Middle English through Old French as "abus," signifying misuse or improper treatment.

Derivatives

• Abusive (adjective)
• Abuser (noun)
• Abusiveness (noun)
• Misuse (noun, related form)
• Overuse (noun, related form)

Synonyms

• Mistreatment
• Exploitation
• Misuse

Antonyms

• Care
• Protection
• Respect

Usage

The term "abuse" is widely used in legal, medical, and social contexts to describe harmful behaviors and practices. Abuse can refer to physical violence, psychological manipulation, or verbal attacks aimed at causing harm. It also applies to the misuse of substances (such as drugs or alcohol), authority, or resources, as in “power abuse.” Legal systems often address various forms of abuse through protective laws and intervention services.

Related Terms

• Neglect: The failure to provide care or attention, especially in cases involving dependents.
• Exploitation: The action of taking advantage of someone or something unjustly.
• Bullying: Repeated aggressive behavior that intentionally harms or intimidates others.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• Improper treatment or cruelty toward someone: Refers to behavior intended to harm, exploit, or control.
  • Example: "The organization helps victims of abuse find support and resources."
• Misuse of a substance, power, or authority: Describes the improper use of resources, power, or influence.
  • Example: "The report highlighted the abuse of public funds."

Verb

• To treat someone with cruelty or violence: Indicates behavior that causes physical or emotional harm to another person.
  • Example: "He was accused of abusing his authority over the team."
• To misuse or improperly use something: Refers to the inappropriate use of resources, substances, or power.
  • Example: "She abused her access to confidential information."