abusar (spanish) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

The word "abusar" is a verb.

Phonetic Transcription

/ a.βu.'saɾ /

Translation Options into English

• to abuse
• to misuse
• to take advantage of

Meaning and Usage

In Spanish, "abusar" generally means to overstep boundaries, often in a negative or immoral context. It can refer to the excessive use of power or taking advantage of someone or something. It is commonly used in both oral and written forms, particularly in legal contexts, discussions about social justice, and everyday conversations regarding personal relationships.

The frequency of usage is relatively high due to its severe implications regarding morality, legality, and interpersonal relationships.

Example Sentences

1. Él decidió abusar de su autoridad en la oficina.

2. He decided to abuse his authority at the office.

3. No debes abusar de la confianza de tus amigos.

4. You should not abuse your friends' trust.

5. La ley castiga a quienes abusan de menores.

6. The law punishes those who abuse minors.

Idiomatic Expressions

The word "abusar" is often found in several idiomatic expressions in Spanish.

Examples

1. Abusar de la buena fe.
2. To abuse good faith.
3. "El proveedor abusó de la buena fe de la empresa y no cumplió con el contrato."

4. The supplier abused the company's good faith and did not fulfill the contract.

5. No abusar del poder.

6. Not to abuse power.
7. "El líder fue advertido de no abusar del poder que se le había otorgado."

8. The leader was warned not to abuse the power that had been granted to him.

9. Abusar de la paciencia.

10. To abuse patience.
11. "Debes tener cuidado de no abusar de la paciencia de tu jefe."

12. You need to be careful not to abuse your boss's patience.

13. Abusar de las palabras.

14. To abuse words.
15. "Su discurso fue un claro ejemplo de abusar de las palabras para manipular a la audiencia."
16. His speech was a clear example of abusing words to manipulate the audience.

Etymology

The verb "abusar" comes from the Latin "abusus," which is the past participle of the verb "abuti," meaning "to use up." The prefix "a-" indicates "from" or "away from," which suggests a misuse or excessive use of something.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms

• Explotar (to exploit)
• Maltratar (to mistreat)
• Aprovecharse (to take advantage)

Antonyms

• Respetar (to respect)
• Cuidar (to care for)
• Proteger (to protect)

This comprehensive understanding of "abusar" provides insights into its application in various contexts, particularly in law and general discourse.