abuse

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'abuse' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to behavior that is cruel or violent. An example sentence would be "The police investigated reports of physical abuse in the household."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Scullion said a recent Facebook page he saw which contained racist abuse aimed at Indigenous people was proof that "we still haven't got it right in this country".

The Guardian

The next home secretary must include the Kincora boys' home scandal in the Westminster paedophile inquiry, according to a leading politician in east Belfast, where the abuse took place.

The Guardian

The Alliance MP's call comes as a victim of abuse at Kincora speaks out on Tuesday night's Channel 4 News alleging that he was taken from the east Belfast home to London where he was molested by members of a VIP paedophile ring.

The Guardian

Shah chairs a mental health charity and is well known locally in Bradford for campaigning on behalf of her mother, who was released from prison in 2000 after serving 14 years for putting poison into the food of Mohammed Azam, a local drug dealer who she feared was planning to sexually abuse her daughters.

The Guardian

At Nazareth House in 1996, a sexual abuse allegation was raised with police.

The Guardian

In December 2014, the company rolled out improvements to its blocking function, and began letting users report abuse directed at others, as well as themselves.

The Guardian - Tech

The royal commission into institutional responses to child sexual abuse has heard the church still uses the defence when victims come forward.

The Guardian

Anthony Fisher, the archbishop of Sydney, says his predecessor would return to Australia if asked, adding that Pell has conceded errors were made in the handling of child abuse cases and has apologised previously.

The Guardian

Because of its entirely exclusive focus on female victims, it seems unlikely that any of these new funds will reach the thousands of men and boys who suffer from this kind of abuse.

The Guardian

In an adjacent area of north Wales woodland, David Cameron orders a future inquiry into a decade-old inquiry about abuse in a children's home.

The Guardian

The Metropolitan police force has signalled that it is prepared to send officers abroad if necessary to investigate the abuse allegations.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use person-centered language by focusing on the victim rather than defining them solely by their experience with abuse. For example, say 'a person who experienced abuse' instead of 'an abuse victim'.

Common error

Avoid generalizing experiences of "abuse". Recognize that each situation is unique and avoid making broad statements that could diminish the specific harm experienced by individuals.

Linguistic Context

The word "abuse" functions as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to improper treatment or usage. As a verb, it signifies the act of mistreating or misusing. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and varied usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "abuse" is a versatile word, functioning as both a noun and a verb, and is used to describe various forms of mistreatment and misuse. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's grammatically sound and frequently employed across diverse contexts, especially within News & Media. When using the term, specifying the type of "abuse" can enhance clarity. Related terms include "mistreatment", "misuse", and "maltreatment". Recognizing its widespread and varied application is crucial for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mistreatment

Focuses on the act of treating someone or something badly or unfairly.

misuse

Emphasizes the incorrect or improper use of something.

maltreatment

Highlights the cruel or violent treatment of a person or animal.

exploitation

Indicates the act of unfairly taking advantage of someone or something.

oppression

Suggests prolonged cruel or unjust treatment or control.

victimization

Focuses on the act of making someone a victim.

harm

A general term indicating physical or other injury.

ill-treatment

Similar to mistreatment but can imply a more deliberate or intentional negative action.

wrongdoing

Emphasizes the act of doing something illegal or morally wrong.

violation

Highlights the act of breaking a law, rule, or agreement.

FAQs

How can "abuse" be defined in legal terms?

Legally, "abuse" encompasses various forms of mistreatment, including physical, emotional, sexual, and financial exploitation, with specific definitions varying by jurisdiction. The legal definition often dictates the types of actions that can be prosecuted or lead to protective measures.

What are some common synonyms for "abuse"?

Common synonyms for "abuse" include "mistreatment", "misuse", "maltreatment", and "exploitation". The best choice depends on the specific context and the type of harm being described.

How does emotional "abuse" differ from other forms of abuse?

Emotional "abuse" involves non-physical behaviors aimed at controlling, isolating, or undermining a person's self-worth. Unlike physical or sexual abuse, emotional abuse leaves no visible marks but can cause significant psychological harm. It often includes tactics like intimidation, humiliation, and manipulation.

What are the long-term effects of child "abuse"?

The long-term effects of child "abuse" can include mental health disorders, difficulty forming healthy relationships, increased risk of substance abuse, and chronic health problems. Early intervention and support can help mitigate these effects.