Basic Details
Word: Abusive
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Treating someone in a cruel or harmful way.
Synonyms: Mistreating, insulting, harmful
Antonyms: Kind, gentle, supportive
Idioms and Phrases
- Throwing shade: To say something mean or hurtful about someone. Example: "During the meeting, she was throwing shade at her colleagues ideas."
- Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me: A phrase used to suggest that verbal insults are not as harmful as physical harm. Example: "He ignored the abusive comments, believing that sticks and stones would never hurt him."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The character in the story escaped an abusive relationship and found a new strength within herself.
Example 2: He was known for his abusive behaviour towards his pets, which made everyone very concerned.
Example 3: The teacher spoke out against abusive language in the classroom, encouraging students to be kind to one another.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the word "abusive" comes from the Latin "abusus," meaning "misuse"? This shows how language can evolve to describe harmful behaviours over time.
Famous Quote
"Abuse is simply another word for a lack of love." - Anonymous
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "abusive" mean?
a) Caring and kind
b) Treating someone cruelly
c) Always happy
d) Generous and giving
Answer: b) Treating someone cruelly
2. Which of these is a synonym of "abusive"?
a) Supportive
b) Insulting
c) Friendly
d) Helpful
Answer: b) Insulting
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "abusive"?
a) Cruel
b) Kind
c) Hurtful
d) Aggressive
Answer: b) Kind
4. Which sentence uses "abusive" correctly?
a) The abusive comments made her feel sad.
b) He was very abusive at the picnic.
c) The flowers looked abusive in the garden.
d) She made an abusive cake.
Answer: a) The abusive comments made her feel sad.
5. Which idiom relates to hurtful words?
a) Throwing shade
b) Break the mould
c) Bite the bullet
d) Keep your chin up
Answer: a) Throwing shade
