misuse
noun
wrong or improper use; misapplication.
have misused
-
present perfectof misuse.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.
Opponents of the program say that prior administrations have misused it by repeatedly renewing benefits that are supposed to be temporary.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 29, 2026
While O'Keefe may have misused the group's funds, it looks like he did it without the board's knowledge or approval.
From Salon ● Feb. 24, 2023
The Guatemalan task force unit believed to have misused the jeeps also has U.S.-provided cargo trucks, radios, helmets, night vision devices and GPS units, GAO reported.
From Washington Times ● Nov. 2, 2022
Thai authorities plan to recall guns from officials and police officers who have misused their firearms or have behaved aggressively on duty.
From Reuters ● Oct. 10, 2022
Few have lost so few days; have misused so few; are able to give a good account of so many.
From Transcendentalism in New England A History by Octavius Brooks Frothingham
