Abusive
/əˈbjuːsɪv/
adjectiveIntermediateCommonGeneral
Meaning
Question
Definitions
1
Having or showing a tendency to speak or act in a way that is intentionally cruel or unkind, often through the use of hurtful words or actions.
/əˈbjuːsɪv/
adjectivenegativeIntermediate
General
using hurtful words or actions
The teacher had to intervene when she noticed the student's abusive language.
More Examples
2
Children who grow up in an abusive household often struggle emotionally as adults.
How It's Used
General
"He was fired for his abusive behavior towards coworkers."
From Latin 'abusivus' meaning 'customary, usual', ultimately from 'ab' meaning 'from' and 'usus' meaning 'use'. Originally used in a neutral sense, but later took on a negative connotation due to misuse.
Historically, the word 'abusive' was used in a neutral sense, but it has since evolved to hold a negative connotation.
Memory tip
Imagine a bully behaving abusively towards someone weaker.
Practice
Base: abuse
abussiveabusiv
Usage
60%Spoken
40%Written