Mistreat: meaning, definitions and examples

When someone is treated badly or unfairly, but not necessarily resulting in severe harm or injury. It can be used in various contexts, including both emotional and physical mistreatment.

• She felt mistreated by her colleagues because they ignored her ideas
• The factory workers were mistreated by their supervisors and given inhumane working conditions

When someone is subjected to harsh and harmful behavior that often involves physical, emotional, or psychological harm over a period of time. Abuse generally involves a power imbalance.

• He suffered years of emotional abuse from his partner
• Child abuse is a serious crime that can have long-lasting effects on the victim

When someone is treated in a cruel or unkind manner, often involving physical harm or severe neglect. It's a less commonly used term than others in this list.

• The orphanage was reported for ill-treating the children
• The dog was ill-treated by its previous owner and needed medical attention

When someone repeatedly uses words or actions to hurt another person, usually occurring among children and teenagers but can happen in adult environments too.

• The older kids bullied him every day at school
• She was bullied online by anonymous users who sent her hateful messages

When someone repeatedly behaves in an unwanted and offensive way towards another person, often involving troubling or aggressive actions and comments, usually with a sexual or discriminatory connotation.

• She filed a complaint after being harassed by her coworker
• He was harassed on the street due to his ethnicity

Use when describing the unfair or cruel treatment of people or animals.

• She was accused of mistreating her pets
• Workers who are mistreated by their employers often feel demoralized

Referring to improper or careless handling of objects, tasks, or situations. Can have a milder negative connotation compared to 'mistreat.'

• The fragile cargo was mishandled during transport
• Mishandling confidential information can lead to serious consequences

Implying severe and often violent treatment of someone, with a negative connotation. It can also be used for substance abuse.

• He was arrested for abusing his wife
• Substance abuse is a serious issue that needs to be addressed

Appropriate for situations where something is physically harmed or spoiled.

• The storm damaged several buildings in the area
• Unauthorized modifications can damage the software