abuse

US /əˈbjuːz/
UK /əˈbjuːz/
"abuse" picture
1.

the improper use of something

:
•
Drug abuse is a serious problem.
•
He was accused of abuse of power.
:
misusemisapplicationexploitation
2.

cruel and violent treatment of a person or animal

:
•
The child suffered physical abuse.
•
Animal abuse is a crime.
:
maltreatmentmistreatmentill-treatmentharminjury
1.

use (something) to bad effect or for a bad purpose; misuse

:
•
He was accused of abusing his position.
•
Some people abuse alcohol.
:
misuseexploitpervert
2.

treat with cruelty or violence, especially regularly or repeatedly

:
•
He was known to abuse his children.
•
The trainer was fired for abusing the animals.
:
maltreatmistreatill-treatharminjure
:
alcohol abuse