Spanish Conversation · Level 111
59 words
Spanish word
abusar
Pronunciation
IPA/aβuˈsaɾ/
Meaning
- verbabuse
Example
No puedes abusar de mi confianza.
You can't abuse my trust.
More examples
No debemos abusar de la paciencia de los demás.
We must not abuse other people's patience.
Core concept
Overuse or exploitation of a person, right, or resource often arising from a position of authority.
Common phrases
abusar de la confianza
abuse someone's trust
abusar de la paciencia
abuse someone's patience
abusar del poder
abuse one's power
Similar words
aprovecharse: Takes advantage of someone's kindness or a situation to obtain personal benefit or convenience.
utilizar: Uses an object, tool, or resource to accomplish a specific, practical purpose.
excederse: Goes beyond reasonable limits or moderation in behavior, amount, or intensity.
Definition in Spanish
Usar algo o a alguien en exceso o de forma injusta, especialmente aprovechando una posición de poder o confianza.
Word origin
Derived from Latin abūtārī (ab- + ūtī 'to use'), originally 'to use to excess', Spanish abusar came to mean unjust or excessive use frequently involving taking advantage of trust or power.
Usage tips
- Abusar normally uses de before its object (abusar de la confianza) and has strong, heavy register when referring to sexual or criminal wrongdoing.