noun
Uncommon
misuse
mihs-YOOS
Misuse (noun) means Incorrect, careless, or improper use of something. Example: “The report warned of the misuse of company funds.”
noun
1
Incorrect, careless, or improper use of something.
"The report warned of the misuse of company funds."
verb
1
To use something incorrectly or for the wrong purpose.
"He was accused of misusing his position for personal gain."
"The medication can be dangerous if misused."
How to use misuse
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo use something the wrong way, or that wrongful use itself.
Common pairings
misuse of power
misuse funds
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Word forms
- Plural
- misuses
- Third person singular
- misuses
- Past tense
- misused, misust
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The report warned of the _____ of company funds.
Etymology
From mis- ("wrongly") plus use.
Related words
Rhymes for misuse
See all rhymes for misuse →Frequently asked questions
What does “misuse” mean?
The word “misuse” means incorrect, careless, or improper use of something. In plain terms, to use something the wrong way, or that wrongful use itself.
How do you pronounce “misuse”?
“Misuse” is pronounced mihs-YOOS (/mɪsˈjuːs/ in IPA).
How do you use “misuse” in a sentence?
Here is “misuse” used in a sentence: “The report warned of the misuse of company funds.”
What part of speech is “misuse”?
Depending on how it is used, “misuse” can be a noun and a verb.
Is “misuse” a common word?
“Misuse” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “misuse” have?
“Misuse” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: incorrect, careless, or improper use of something.
What is the difference between misuse and abuse?
Misuse refers to using something incorrectly, carelessly, or for the wrong purpose, while abuse often implies a more harmful or excessive pattern of mistreatment, particularly with substances, power, or people. Misuse can be accidental, such as misusing a tool, whereas abuse is usually deliberate or repeated.
Is misuse a noun, a verb, or both?
Misuse functions as both a noun and a verb. As a noun it names the improper use of something, as in 'misuse of funds,' and as a verb it describes the act itself, as in 'they misused the equipment.'
What is a common collocation with misuse?
Misuse frequently pairs with words like 'drug misuse,' 'misuse of power,' and 'misuse of data,' especially in formal, legal, or policy contexts. These collocations highlight improper handling of something valuable or sensitive.
