How to Say "to misuse" in Spanish
The Spanish word for “to misuse” is “abusar” — B1 level. This is a very common word in everyday Spanish.
Examples
No debes abusar de su confianza.
You shouldn't take advantage of her trust.
Muchos políticos abusan de su poder.
Many politicians misuse their power.
Si abusas de los videojuegos, no tendrás tiempo para estudiar.
If you overdo it with video games, you won't have time to study.
The Magic Link 'de'
Unlike English, which says 'abuse power,' Spanish usually needs the bridge word 'de' (abusar de algo).
When 'abusar' is alone
If you don't mention what you are abusing, you can use the verb by itself: '¡No abuses!' (Don't overdo it!)
Missing the 'de'
Mistake: “Él abusa su autoridad.”
Correction: Él abusa DE su autoridad. Remember that 'abusar' almost always needs 'de' before the object.
Related Translations
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