abusive

Everyday

1. Using rude, insulting or cruel words: «abusive language». tree →
2. Treating someone cruelly or violently, hurting them again and again: «an abusive relationship». tree →
3. Using something wrongly or unfairly, especially power. tree →

In the lessons

In safety and PSHE lessons «abusive» describes behaviour that is never okay: being hit, threatened, insulted or hurt by anyone, including adults or people online. If someone is abusive to you, tell a trusted adult. Online, abusive messages can be reported and blocked. Phrases: «abusive language», «abusive messages», «abusive behaviour».

Examples

• Abusive messages should be reported and blocked. tree →
• The referee sent off the player for abusive language. tree →
• No one deserves to be in an abusive home. tree →
• If an adult is abusive to you, tell a teacher you trust. tree →
• The website removes abusive comments. tree →
• The shop sign said staff will not accept abusive behaviour. tree →
• Turning upon him, in her anger and disappointment she called the poor man all the abusive names that she could think of. tree →

Note

From the noun and verb «abuse». Strong word: it is more serious than «mean» or «rude». Spelling: abusive (drop the e of «abuse», add -ive). Say «uh-BYOO-siv». Abuse is never the fault of the child who is hurt.