B2nouncrimesociety
US/əˈbjuːs/
UK/əˈbjuːs/
cruel or violent treatment of someone; also using something in a bad or harmful way
In context
Child abuse is a serious crime in every country.
The report talks about the abuse of power by local officials.
Drug abuse among young people is a growing problem.
Words that go with abuse
noun + noun
- child abuseTeachers are trained to notice child abuse.
- drug abuseThe clinic helps people recover from drug abuse.
- alcohol abuseAlcohol abuse causes many road accidents.
noun + preposition
- abuse of powerThe minister was accused of abuse of power.
adjective + noun
- verbal abuseStaff should not have to accept verbal abuse.