as in abuse
incorrect or improper use
the warranty for this dryer is null and void if you subject the product to deliberate misuse
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1
as in to abuse
to put to a bad or improper use
an actor who misused his considerable talent by appearing in too many lousy movies
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2
as in to bully
to inflict physical or emotional harm upon
sadly misused by the people he had trusted
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Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
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Recent Examples of misuse
Alana Wise, NPR, 15 June 2025
This represents a major problem, as the likelihood of harm associated with the misuse of open robotic research and innovation is likely higher than that of nuclear and biological research, both of which require significantly more resources.
—Ludovic Righetti, IEEE Spectrum, 10 June 2025
Greg Iacurci, CNBC, 14 June 2025
The downside is that wrist monitors are much more challenging to use correctly and can give inaccurate readings if misused.
—Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 10 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for misuse
Noun
Since the parade was announced, there has been sharp criticism, particularly from Democratic lawmakers who call the showcase self-indulgent and a misuse of public funds.
—Alana Wise, NPR, 15 June 2025
This represents a major problem, as the likelihood of harm associated with the misuse of open robotic research and innovation is likely higher than that of nuclear and biological research, both of which require significantly more resources.
—Ludovic Righetti, IEEE Spectrum, 10 June 2025
Verb
Getty Images There are all sorts of ways for consumers to misuse credit cards, from failing to pay monthly bills in full to running up your balance.
—Greg Iacurci, CNBC, 14 June 2025
The downside is that wrist monitors are much more challenging to use correctly and can give inaccurate readings if misused.
—Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 10 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for misuse
Recent Examples of Synonyms for misuse
abuse
Noun
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Jail records show Walker also has a pending case on suspicion of elder abuse and assault by means of force likely to cause great bodily injury.—
Ethan Wolin,
Sacbee.com,
19 June 2025
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Arsenal forward Russo was one of just many England players who spoke about the impact social media abuse can have on their well-being.—
Ben Morse,
CNN Money,
18 June 2025
Cite this Entry
“Misuse.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/misuse. Accessed 1 Jul. 2025.
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