withstand abuse

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "withstand abuse" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the ability of a person, system, or object to endure or resist mistreatment or harm. Example: "The new software is designed to withstand abuse from users who may not follow the guidelines."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

There are, of course, measures of political grit besides the ability to dole out and withstand abuse.

The New Yorker

That means it can withstand abuse that would turn ordinary consumer electronics gadgets into masses of useless plastic, glass and metal.

The New York Times

For this reason the steam locomotive became obsolete, but only slowly, because it had compensating advantages, notably its simplicity and ability to withstand abuse.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The best thing about this camera is its ability to withstand abuse.

TechCrunch

Examples of perennials that can withstand abuse from foot traffic include lilyturf (genus Liriope) and brass buttons.

WikiHow

These bikes are often the most durable to withstand abuse from impacts from doing tricks and the usual abuse from racing in a BMX track.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Police withstood abuse and missiles for over an hour before officers equipped riot gear could be deployed.

The Guardian

But according to a horticultural expert who worked on refurbishing the lawn, it was designed to withstand the abuse of large crowds since the grass was planted in a special soil mix so that it could take the weight and traffic without reverting to the great dust bowl it had once been.

The New York Times

Barris eventually couldn’t withstand the abuse from critics.

Forbes

The new tire developed by Goodyear is designed to hold much more weight and withstand the abuse of a multi-thousand kilometer journey.

TechCrunch

Travel laptops must be small and lightweight but durable enough to withstand the abuse they are sure to encounter on the road everything from dropped bags to spilled coffee.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "withstand abuse" in technical writing, consider specifying the type of abuse to enhance clarity. For example: "The material is designed to withstand chemical abuse."

Common error

Avoid using "withstand abuse" when referring to simple wear and tear. "Abuse" implies intentional mistreatment or excessive use, not just normal aging. For example, a chair that breaks after years of use hasn't "withstood abuse"; it has simply worn out.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "withstand abuse" functions primarily as a verb phrase, where "withstand" is the verb and "abuse" is the noun acting as the direct object. It describes the capacity to endure or resist harmful actions or conditions. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Wiki

20%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "withstand abuse" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that describes the ability to endure or resist mistreatment or harm. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is suitable for written English. It appears most commonly in News & Media sources and is useful for describing both physical and emotional resilience. While a generally neutral phrase, it's important to consider the specific context of "abuse" when using it to ensure clarity and accuracy. Related phrases include "endure mistreatment" and "tolerate maltreatment", offering nuanced alternatives for different situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

endure mistreatment

Focuses on the act of bearing ill-treatment.

tolerate maltreatment

Emphasizes acceptance, even unwillingly, of poor treatment.

resist harm

Highlights the active opposition to damage or injury.

bear the brunt of abuse

Suggests taking the main force of mistreatment or attack.

brave the abuse

Implies facing abuse with courage and resilience.

survive the abuse

Focuses on overcoming the mistreatment.

weather the storm of abuse

Presents abuse as a temporary but difficult period to get through.

cope with abuse

Suggests managing the effects of abuse.

fend off abuse

Implies actively defending oneself against mistreatment.

deflect abuse

Suggests redirecting or avoiding the mistreatment.

FAQs

What does "withstand abuse" mean?

The phrase "withstand abuse" means to endure or resist mistreatment, damage, or harmful actions without succumbing or being significantly affected. It implies a level of resilience or durability.

How can I use "withstand abuse" in a sentence?

You can use "withstand abuse" to describe objects, systems, or even people that are capable of enduring harmful treatment. For example, "The new phone is designed to withstand abuse from accidental drops" or "She learned to withstand emotional abuse through therapy".

What are some alternatives to "withstand abuse"?

Alternatives to "withstand abuse" include "endure mistreatment", "tolerate maltreatment", "resist harm", or "survive abuse", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to use "withstand abuse" in formal writing?

Yes, "withstand abuse" is appropriate for formal writing. It's a clear and direct way to convey the ability to endure or resist mistreatment. However, consider the specific type of abuse for clarity, especially in technical contexts.