abusively

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "abusively" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe actions or behaviors that are harmful, cruel, or excessively harsh towards someone or something. Example: "The manager spoke abusively to the employees, creating a toxic work environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Vitaly Borker, the founder of DecorMyEyes, an online optician, tried to generate publicity by replying abusively to dissatisfied customers, and even allegedly threatening some of them with violence.

The Economist

Even if two operators are using the same script, she says, some callers may respond differently (or even abusively) depending on the operator's gender or accent.Never mind the philosophical question of whether it is wrong to insult a machine.

The Economist

Most notoriously, the Ming state system allowed emperors to behave capriciously and abusively toward their officials.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Reince Priebus, the chairman of the R.N.C., said that the deal addressed the candidates' concerns about the previously broadcast debates, which he called "abusively fact-based".

The New Yorker

The collapse of the Muslim Seleka rebel coalition, which ruled abusively for nine months last year, had precipitated the onslaught.

The New Yorker

Some of what you hear about them may even be true, but all of it will be written or spoken in an abusively familiar style — chummy, coarse, knowing.

The New Yorker

The chairman of the R.N.C. said that the deal addressed concerns about the previously broadcast debates, which he called "abusively fact-based".

The New Yorker

But his disease and addiction, in whatever combination, were well advanced, and he came to treat Hébuterne abusively.

The New York Times - Books

They define hate speech in terms of the manner of speaking (threateningly, abusively) and in terms of its intended object (to stir up hatred against some group).

The New York Times

After Mr. Rice was fired and the athletic director resigned, a new athletic director was revealed to have been the target of complaints that she treated players abusively in her career as a coach.

The New York Times

Yet the military has been treating him abusively, in a way that conjures creepy memories of how the Bush administration used to treat terror suspects.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "abusively" to describe actions or speech that are not only harmful but also exploit a power imbalance or violate someone's rights or dignity.

Common error

Avoid using "abusively" when describing simple disagreements or criticisms. Reserve it for situations involving clear harm or exploitation. Overusing it can dilute its impact and make your writing seem hyperbolic.

Linguistic Context

The adverb "abusively" modifies verbs to describe actions performed in a harmful, cruel, or exploitative manner. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and provides many examples. For instance, an emperor might behave "abusively" towards officials.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "abusively" functions as an adverb, modifying verbs to depict actions carried out in a manner that is harmful, exploitative, or cruel. Ludwig AI confirms that it is correct and very commonly used, particularly within news and media contexts. The word carries a negative connotation and signals disapproval, highlighting unethical or wrongful conduct. When writing, it's crucial to use "abusively" when actions involve exploitation or a clear power imbalance. Alternatives include "harshly" or "cruelly", depending on the intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cruelly

Emphasizes the intent to cause suffering or pain.

harshly

Focuses more on the severity of the action rather than the abusive nature.

brutally

Highlights the violent and merciless nature of the action.

hurtfully

Emphasizes the emotional pain caused by the action.

maltreating

Implies a pattern of mistreatment and abuse.

oppressively

Suggests the exertion of power or authority to cause hardship.

injuriously

Focuses on the harm or damage caused by the action.

tyrannically

Indicates the use of absolute power in a cruel and unjust way.

with malice

Highlights the intention to do evil or harm.

wrongfully

Focuses on the injustice or illegality of the action.

FAQs

How can I use "abusively" in a sentence?

You can use "abusively" to describe actions or behaviors that are harmful and exploit a power dynamic. For example, "The manager spoke "abusively" to the employees, creating a toxic work environment."

What are some synonyms for "abusively"?

Alternatives to "abusively" include "harshly", "cruelly", or "brutally". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "abusively" and "critically"?

"Critically" means expressing adverse or disapproving comments or judgments, while "abusively" means in a manner that causes harm or exploitation. You might critique someone's work critically, but treat them "abusively".

When is it appropriate to use the word "abusively"?

It is appropriate to use "abusively" when describing actions that are harmful and violate someone's rights or dignity. Consider whether the behavior involves exploitation or a power imbalance. If so, "abusively" is a fitting descriptor.