abuse
verb (used with object)
to use wrongly or improperly; misuse.
have abused
-
present perfectof abuse.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
But the company reserves the right to refuse returns to people who have abused the policy, such as repeatedly purchasing the shoes for specific events and then returning them.
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 11, 2026
"Sony have abused that position by charging consumers too much money," consumer campaigner Alex Neill, who brought the action on behalf of an estimated 12.2 million users, told AFP.
From Barron's ● Mar. 10, 2026
Critics have said that NSO’s clients include Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Jordan and Poland and that those countries have abused the system to snoop on critics and stifle dissent.
From Seattle Times ● Jan. 9, 2023
He resigned from Parliament last year after he was found to have abused his role as an MP while working for two firms as a paid consultant.
From BBC ● Nov. 22, 2022
You fostered me, and I have abused the gifts which education bestowed upon me.
From On the Heights A Novel by Berthold Auerbach
