Synonyms for
Abusive
Definition
causing harm or injury to someone or something through cruel or violent treatment; using language that is offensive or insulting
Synonyms & similar words
Synonyms by register
Antonyms
Common collocations
- abusive language
- abusive behavior
- abusive relationship
- physically abusive
- emotionally abusive
- verbally abusive
- abusive parent
Word family
Usage note
Often used to describe behavior or language that is harmful or insulting. Can refer to physical, emotional, or verbal mistreatment.
Example sentences
- The abusive teacher punished the student by hitting them with a ruler.
- The abusive husband yelled at his wife and made her feel worthless.
- The abusive dog owner neglected their pet and left it outside in the cold.
- The abusive language used by the bully hurt the victim's feelings.
- The abusive behavior of the boss made the employees afraid to speak up.
Quotes
The scars you can't see are the hardest to heal. The abuse you can't remember is the hardest to recover from. -Nova
The only people who get upset about you setting boundaries are the ones who were benefiting from you having none. -Unknown
No one has the right to hurt you in any way. -Unknown