abuse
This word carries a heavy emotional weight and is almost always negative. It suggests a violation of trust or a breach of a natural boundary, where the stronger party exploits the weaker party. When applied to people, it evokes images of trauma, control, and suffering. In a non-human context, such as abusing a tool or a privilege, the word shifts toward a sense of waste or misuse. It implies that something valuable is being degraded or worn out through negligence or selfishness rather than through normal wear and tear.
Countable when referring to a specific instance of mistreatment (an abuse of power). Uncountable when referring to the general practice or state of being mistreated (child abuse).
Meanings
To treat a person or animal with cruelty or violence.
"He was arrested for abusing his pets."
To use something in a way that is wrong or improper.
"The politician was accused of abusing his power."
To use an illegal drug or alcohol excessively.
"He began to abuse painkillers after the surgery."