misuse
UK/.mis'ju:z/US
IELTSC1
Definitions
n.
The wrong or improper use of something
误用，滥用
v.
To use something wrongly or improperly
误用，滥用，错误使用
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedmis- (wrongly) + use = 'to use wrongly.' Transparent: applying something to the wrong purpose or in the wrong way — misuse of funds, misuse of a word.
Root us still carries 68 more wordsUsage Guide
Stress shifts by part of speech: the noun is MIS-use (/ˈmɪsjuːs/), the verb is mis-USE (/ˌmɪsˈjuːz/), with the verb ending in a /z/ sound — exactly like 'use' itself.
Example Sentences
- 1.
He was accused of the misuse of public funds.
- 2.
Don't misuse this word — it doesn't mean what you think.
- 3.
Misuse of the equipment can be dangerous.