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Overuse of word 'abuse'

(29 Posts)
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winterwhite Wed 24-Oct-18 19:21:08

If there has already been a thread about this I have missed it.

It seems to me that the word abuse is now being used to describe quite transient incidents when, say, 'insult' would be a more appropriate word. And this has grown over the past few years. Abuse I would say is a sustained misuse of power, and we need a word for that which isn't diluted by being applied too widely. Of course I do not mean that I condone rude or insensitive comments or behaviour, but I don't think matters are helped by such strong language in return.

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PamelaJ1 Fri 26-Oct-18 13:57:22

Luckygirl, but are you devastated??

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PECS Fri 26-Oct-18 19:02:30

Nonnie maybe "Deceptive victimisation" or "faux, self identifying victimhood" !!
Using a word in a perjorative manner just adds to the tendency to inflame and annoy. Making up phrases and using words that are laden with judgement or disparagement do not really contribute positively to a debate.

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GrandmaMoira Sat 27-Oct-18 09:54:51

I think the word narcissist is the one which is most overused. This is a medical term which should be diagnosed by a doctor not just thrown around about someone who has behaved badly.

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