Abusive

Abusive is an adjective used to describe conduct or speech that harms another person or is indicative of abuse. It can refer to actions that cause physical, emotional, or psychological harm, and it is often linked to power imbalances in relationships or organizations. The term can describe individuals, behaviors, or environments.

Common forms include physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional or psychological abuse, verbal harassment, coercive control, financial exploitation, and neglect. Abuse can occur in intimate relationships, family settings, workplaces, institutions, or online. Abusive language and harassment—such as threats, insults, or demeaning comments—are also described as abusive.

In law and policy, abuse is addressed through criminal statutes, civil protections, and organizational rules. Domestic violence, child abuse, elder abuse, and animal abuse are subject to legal interventions in many jurisdictions. Workplaces, schools, and online platforms implement harassment policies and reporting mechanisms to reduce abusive conduct and protect victims.

The impact of abuse ranges from immediate harm to long-term physical and mental health problems. Survivors may require medical care, psychological support, and legal remedies. Prevention emphasizes education, clear behavioral expectations, accessible reporting channels, and accountability for perpetrators.

Etymology-wise, abusive derives from abuse with the suffix -ive; it is used across contexts to describe actions, speech, or environments that demean, harm, or intimidate others. The phrase abusive relationship or abusive behavior is common in social, legal, and clinical discussions.