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Maltreated: meaning, definitions and examples

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maltreated

 

[ˌmɔːltɪˈtriːtɪd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

injustice

To treat (a person or animal) cruelly or with violence, especially regularly or repeatedly.

Synonyms

abuse, bully, ill-treat, mistreat.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
maltreated

This word is often used in formal contexts, particularly in reports or discussions about cases involving neglect or harm, such as in legal documents or social services reports.

  • The animal was maltreated, resulting in severe injuries.
  • Reports indicate that several children were maltreated by their guardians.
abuse

Abuse is commonly used to describe severe mistreatment, both physical and emotional, especially in contexts related to domestic violence, child protection, or substance abuse. It has a strong negative connotation.

  • She had suffered years of abuse at the hands of her partner.
  • The organization provides support for those affected by drug abuse.
mistreat

Mistreat is a general term that describes treating someone badly or unfairly. It can be used in various contexts, including personal relationships, work environments, or animal care.

  • He was mistreated by his employer and forced to work long hours without pay.
  • The dog was clearly mistreated and appeared very scared.
ill-treat

Ill-treat is often used in a formal or legal context to describe the unjust treatment of individuals or animals, typically less severe than abuse.

  • The prisoners were ill-treated during their captivity.
  • The law punishes those who ill-treat animals.
bully

This word is typically used to describe repeated aggressive behavior intended to hurt another person, often in schools, workplaces, or online. It usually refers to behavior among peers.

  • He was bullied at school for his appearance.
  • Online bullies can cause significant emotional distress.

Examples of usage

  • He was regularly maltreated by his stepfather.
  • The prisoners were maltreated by the guards.
Context #2 | Verb

neglect

To neglect or mistreat (a situation, opportunity, etc.)

Synonyms

misuse, neglect, underuse.

Examples of usage

  • She felt she had maltreated her talent by not using it to its full potential.
  • He maltreated his chances of success by not studying for the exam.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Middle English term 'maltreten,' which means to treat badly.
  • It is formed from the prefix 'mal-' meaning bad or wrong, combined with 'treat'.

Social Issues

  • Maltreatment can occur in various relationships, including familial, social, and institutional contexts.
  • It has significant effects on mental health, often leading to long-term psychological trauma.
  • Advocacy movements work to raise awareness about maltreatment, promoting better treatment standards in homes and institutions.

Psychology

  • Studies suggest that individuals who experience maltreatment in childhood are at a higher risk for behavioral problems later in life.
  • Maltreatment can lead to attachment issues, where individuals struggle to form trusting relationships.
  • Understanding the impact of maltreatment helps clinicians devise better therapeutic interventions for affected individuals.

Literature

  • Numerous literary works explore themes of maltreatment, often highlighting the plight of protagonists facing adversity.
  • Classic novels like 'Jane Eyre' and 'Oliver Twist' depict characters who endure maltreatment but eventually overcome their struggles.

Law

  • Maltreatment is often a central concern in child protection laws, with various regulations designed to prevent abuse.
  • Legal systems may define maltreatment differently based on cultural contexts and societal norms.

Translations

Translations of the word "maltreated" in other languages:

🇵🇹 maltratado

🇮🇳 दुर्व्यवहार किया गया

🇩🇪 misshandelt

🇮🇩 dianiaya

🇺🇦 знущалися

🇵🇱 źle traktowany

🇯🇵 虐待された (ぎゃくたいされた)

🇫🇷 maltraité

🇪🇸 maltratado

🇹🇷 kötü muamele görmüş

🇰🇷 학대받은 (hakdaebadeun)

🇸🇦 سوء المعاملة

🇨🇿 týraný

🇸🇰 týraný

🇨🇳 受虐待 (shòu nüèdài)

🇸🇮 zlorabljen

🇮🇸 mishandlaður

🇰🇿 қиянат көрген

🇬🇪 წამებული (ts'am'ebuli)

🇦🇿 pis rəftar edilən

🇲🇽 maltratado

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,485, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.