misuse

/ˈmɪsˌjuːs/

use something incorrectly or improperly

The company was fined for the misuse of customer data.

The company was penalized for using customer data in an improper way.

general

to use something in a way that is incorrect, improper, or illegal

He was accused of misusing company funds for personal expenses.

He was accused of using company money for his own personal spending.

Misuse of prescription drugs can lead to serious health problems.

Using prescription drugs in the wrong way can cause serious health issues.

The term often implies intentional or negligent wrongdoing.

Collocations

misuse of powerusing authority in a wrong or abusive waymisuse of resourcesusing resources in a wasteful or improper mannermisuse of informationusing data or information in an unauthorized or harmful way

using power or position in a wrong or abusive way

using money in a way that is illegal or unethical

In legal contexts, 'misuse' often refers to actions that violate laws or regulations.

Misuse often implies intentional or negligent wrongdoing, not just accidental mistakes.

From Middle English 'misusen', from Old French 'mesuser', from Latin 'male' (badly) + 'usare' (to use).

The word is often used in legal, ethical, or professional contexts to describe improper behavior or actions.

mis-

bad, wrong, or incorrect

prefix

-use

to employ or utilize something

root

English Dictionary