as in insulting
marked by harsh insulting language
never one to believe that honorable people can disagree honorably, he invariably launches abusive attacks against anyone who dares to challenge him
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of abusive
Some have also pointed to the concept of DARVO, a manipulation tactic common in abusive relationships, when analyzing Paul.
—
Angela Yang, NBC news, 29 Mar. 2026
This followed a controversy over plans for a float in the South Side Irish Parade showing support for five CPD officers accused of abusive conduct — including Cmdr.
—Adam Harrington, CBS News, 29 Mar. 2026
That same panel also granted a re-trial in Marta's case after Gaw argued that critical evidence was tossed out that could have affected the jury's decision, including allegations that Goodenbour was emotionally abusive in previous programs.
—Julia Haney, NPR, 28 Mar. 2026
Someone in an abusive relationship may be unable to discuss their situation with a provider if the abuser can hear their conversation, Kelly said.
—Evan MacDonald, Houston Chronicle, 28 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for abusive
Angela Yang, NBC news, 29 Mar. 2026
This followed a controversy over plans for a float in the South Side Irish Parade showing support for five CPD officers accused of abusive conduct — including Cmdr.
—Adam Harrington, CBS News, 29 Mar. 2026
That same panel also granted a re-trial in Marta's case after Gaw argued that critical evidence was tossed out that could have affected the jury's decision, including allegations that Goodenbour was emotionally abusive in previous programs.
—Julia Haney, NPR, 28 Mar. 2026
Someone in an abusive relationship may be unable to discuss their situation with a provider if the abuser can hear their conversation, Kelly said.
—Evan MacDonald, Houston Chronicle, 28 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for abusive
Recent Examples of Synonyms for abusive
Adjective
-
While their insulting jabs at each other make for good laughs, their arc as teammates learning to work together is what gives the film its heart.—
Glenn Garner,
Deadline,
13 Mar. 2026
-
Prestianni, who has denied racially insulting Vinícius and has been defended by Benfica, was provisionally suspended for one match by UEFA and did not play in the second leg.—
ABC News,
ABC News,
1 Mar. 2026
Adjective
-
The Asian version will take flight after the original contest takes place in Vienna in May, with 35 countries competing in the singing contest known for outrageous costumes, towering ballads and high-energy performances.—
Gil Kaufman,
Billboard,
31 Mar. 2026
-
There is a difference between being anti-establishment and not supporting Israel as opposed to outrageous, radical views laced with antisemitism.—
Doug Friednash,
Denver Post,
30 Mar. 2026
Adjective
-
The legislation would require social media platforms to estimate the age of users and exclude obscene content to children 16 years old or younger.—
Angela Palermo,
Idaho Statesman,
2 Apr. 2026
-
The use of obscene or indecent clothing or signs will result in expulsion.—
Ed Masley,
AZCentral.com,
31 Mar. 2026
Adjective
-
David smells an opportunity but completely misreads Hale, a vicious and vituperative man who delights in tormenting lesser writers.—
Stuart Miller,
Oc Register,
9 Feb. 2026
-
But, in private, Koren could be aggressive and vituperative—a competitive colleague who sought to destroy the reputations and careers of those who crossed him.—
Ben Taub,
New Yorker,
26 Jan. 2026
Adjective
-
The malicious actor hacked into Weiss’s contact’s Telegram, arranged a video call with him, and attempted to run a script on his computer to get his passwords.—
Carlos Garcia,
Fortune,
2 Apr. 2026
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There’s nothing malicious or negative about [their split].—
Jordana Comiter,
PEOPLE,
1 Apr. 2026
Adjective
-
The rule has been expanded that teams must interview two minority candidates for openings at head coach, general managers and the offensive and defensive coordinator jobs.—
Mac Engel
March 30,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
30 Mar. 2026
-
Linebackers or offensive linemen?—
Alex Zietlow,
Charlotte Observer,
30 Mar. 2026
Adjective
-
And in return for all that scurrilous effort, not a single banning.—
Literary Hub,
Literary Hub,
19 Feb. 2026
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There were even scurrilous songs composed about the couple.—
Hadley Hall Meares,
Vanity Fair,
11 Feb. 2026
Adjective
-
To attend an Old Firm fixture, as the rivalry is known, is to understand the frenetic, vitriolic, passionate and sometimes poisonous world of football in Glasgow.—
The Athletic Staff,
New York Times,
15 Feb. 2026
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When the San Francisco Chronicle axed its stand-alone books section, in 2001, the paper’s editors were overwhelmed by an ensuing crush of vitriolic mail.—
Becca Rothfeld,
New Yorker,
10 Feb. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Abusive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/abusive. Accessed 6 Apr. 2026.
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