abuse
verb (used with object)
to use wrongly or improperly; misuse.
were abusing
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past progressiveof abuse.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
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.
Many creditors pushed for these changes because they felt some individuals were abusing the system.
From Salon ● Aug. 29, 2026
Most of the other judges were abusing the system.
From Slate ● Jan. 6, 2025
“I really believe in the spirit of the Rooney Rule, but I just saw how people were abusing it and I didn’t want to be a part of that.”
From Seattle Times ● Feb. 11, 2022
Lopez Obrador said some business leaders were abusing prices with 15% to 20% increases, even though inflation is lower.
From Reuters ● Dec. 17, 2021
Many musicians thought that conductors were abusing their power and playing favorites.
From "Blink" by Malcolm Gladwell
