Abusive

usgb/əˈbjuːsɪv/
adjective

Using hurtful or offensive language or actions towards someone.

Her father was very abusive when he drank alcohol.
Visual representation of "abusive" - Using hurtful or offensive language or actions towards someone.

Often appears as...

  • abusive behavior
  • abusive relationship

Usage tips

Disapproving

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "abusive"
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Negative Emotion

Abusive indicates strong negative feelings and harm, often in a personal or emotional context.

Illustration for Negative Emotion
The manager's abusive comments upset all the employees.
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Beyond Insulting

Abusive goes beyond general insult, implying aggressive and potentially damaging behavior.

Illustration for Beyond Insulting
Her abusive ex-partner would constantly belittle her.
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Power Dynamics

When abusive involves authority figures, it suggests misuse of power in harmful ways.

Illustration for Power Dynamics
The teacher was dismissed for his abusive conduct towards students.
Word comparison image

Compare with

contemptuousderogatoryinsultoffensiveopprobriousscornfulscurrilousvilifyvituperative
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Visual representation of the word "Abusive"

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