C1noun 2K

Abuse

🇬🇧 UK //əˈbjuːz// 🇺🇸 US //əˈbjus//

Meaning of Abuse

Cruel or violent treatment of a person or animal.

In simple words: To treat someone or something badly.

Abuse in a sentence

• The report highlighted cases of child abuse in the local community.
• Many organizations are fighting against animal abuse in various countries.
• He faced abuse from his peers for being different.
• Substance abuse can lead to serious health problems.
• They reported the case of elderly abuse to the authorities.

How to use Abuse

Used in both legal and informal contexts. Be cautious of its severe implications when addressing real-life situations.

Grammar pattern

abuse + object

Memory hint

Think of 'abuse' as 'ab use'; when something is not used correctly, it can become harmful.

Related words

Collocations with Abuse

• domestic abuse
• substance abuse
• sexual abuse
• emotional abuse

Synonyms for Abuse

• mistreatment
• abandonment
• exploitation
• insult
• harm

Opposites of Abuse

• care
• protection
• respect

Common mistakes with Abuse

• Confused with 'use' - abuse implies negative treatment.
• Using it in less serious contexts - abuse is a serious term.
• Omitting the object - abuse typically requires an object.

Frequently asked questions about Abuse

What does Abuse mean?

To treat someone or something badly.

What is the definition of Abuse?

Cruel or violent treatment of a person or animal.

How do you use Abuse in a sentence?

The report highlighted cases of child abuse in the local community.

Can you give another example of Abuse?

Many organizations are fighting against animal abuse in various countries.

What are synonyms for Abuse?

Common alternatives include mistreatment, abandonment, exploitation, insult, harm.

What is the opposite of Abuse?

Opposite meanings include care, protection, respect.

What words go with Abuse?

It commonly pairs with domestic abuse, substance abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse.

What are common mistakes when using Abuse?

Confused with 'use' - abuse implies negative treatment. Using it in less serious contexts - abuse is a serious term. Omitting the object - abuse typically requires an object.

How do you pronounce Abuse?

US: //əˈbjus//, UK: //əˈbjuːz//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Abuse?

Used in both legal and informal contexts. Be cautious of its severe implications when addressing real-life situations.

What CEFR level is Abuse?

"Abuse" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.